Timor-Leste’s ASEAN Integration Gains Momentum with Korean Support
A new initiative, the KICKSTART Project, is bolstering Timor-Leste’s capacity to fully integrate into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Funded by the Republic of Korea (ROK) through the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF) and implemented by the Korea International Cooperation Service (KOICS), the project focuses on strengthening institutional and human resource capabilities.
Strengthening Timor-Leste’s Economic Foundations
The KICKSTART Project arrives at a crucial time, as Timor-Leste progresses towards full participation in the ASEAN Community. Key areas of focus include customs administration, trade facilitation, regulatory systems, and legal frameworks. These improvements are vital for Timor-Leste to meet its ASEAN commitments and participate effectively in regional and global trade.
DSG Satvinder, speaking at the project launch, highlighted the timeliness and strategic importance of the initiative. He emphasized that strengthening these competencies will enable Timor-Leste to navigate the complexities of regional economic arrangements.
The Evolving ASEAN Trade Landscape
The project’s launch coincides with significant developments in ASEAN’s trade integration agenda. The Second Protocol to Amend the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) will come into effect on June 1, 2027, introducing deeper tariff liberalization, stronger rules on non-tariff measures, and expanded digital trade facilitation tools. This upgraded ATIGA aims to enhance efficiency and reinforce regional supply chains.
Sustained support for Timor-Leste’s technical and institutional capacities will be essential as it prepares for full integration into ASEAN by 2028. The KICKSTART Project is designed to provide that support.
IAI Perform Plan V: A Broader Framework for Integration
The recently adopted Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan V (2026–2030) further prioritizes projects benefiting Timor-Leste, alongside Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, and Viet Nam (CLMV) countries. This work plan emphasizes high-impact and targeted projects designed to narrow development gaps within ASEAN.
Continued collaboration with the ROK is crucial for the effective implementation of IAI Work Plan V and for mobilizing ongoing support for these integration efforts.
Korea’s Commitment to ASEAN Capacity Building
The ROK, through the AKCF, has demonstrated a consistent commitment to ASEAN’s capacity-building initiatives. Chargé d’Affaires Hahm Jeong-han of the ROK Mission to ASEAN has been a key figure in these efforts, attending ceremonies and reaffirming Korea’s dedication to supporting ASEAN’s development.
The revised AKCF Manual, approved on December 30, 2025, reflects a shared commitment to transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in project planning and implementation.
FAQ
What is the KICKSTART Project?
The KICKSTART Project is an initiative funded by the ROK through the AKCF to strengthen Timor-Leste’s institutional and human resource capacity for ASEAN integration.
When will Timor-Leste be fully integrated into ASEAN?
Timor-Leste is preparing for full integration into ASEAN by 2028.
What is the AKCF?
The ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund (AKCF) is a fund established by the ROK to support cooperation projects with ASEAN Member States.
What is ATIGA?
ATIGA stands for the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement. The Second Protocol to Amend ATIGA will come into effect on June 1, 2027.
What is IAI Work Plan V?
The Initiative for ASEAN Integration (IAI) Work Plan V (2026–2030) prioritizes projects benefiting Timor-Leste and other CLMV countries.
Who is Hahm Jeong-han?
Hahm Jeong-han is the Chargé d’Affaires of the ROK Mission to ASEAN.
Did you recognize? The ASEAN-Korea Platform for Great Minds (AKPGM) initiative supports the 2026 ASEAN-Korea Academic Conference, a flagship scholarly forum.
Pro Tip: Staying informed about ASEAN initiatives and the AKCF is crucial for businesses and organizations looking to engage with the region.
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