This 2005 Article IV Consultation highlights that the economy of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste remains fragile. Cumulative growth over the last three years was near zero—mainly reflecting the drawdown in the presence of international agencies. Unemployment is high, 40 percent of the population lives below the poverty line, and social indicators are poor. At the same time, human capital remains scarce, physical infrastructure inadequate, and financing opportunities limited. The government is making good progress with the measures necessary to handle its new oil/gas wealth responsibly.

The staff report for the 2004 Article IV Consultation on the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste highlights economic developments and policies. Progress has been made in consolidating the new government’s administrative power and fostering a stable political environment, despite some early challenges. Despite progress in economic reconstruction, significant economic challenges remain. These challenges center on the strengthening of medium-term growth prospects to alleviate widespread poverty. Given the constraints of the current regime, prudent fiscal and wage policies will be essential to help avoid attrition in Timor-Leste’s external competitiveness.