THE POTENTIAL OF CHINA-TIMOR-LSESTE COFFEE INDUSTRY COOPERATION AND THE DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE

Resumen

Coffee is the main commercial crop in Timor-Leste, and since independence, coffee exports have accounted for 85-90% of the country’s annual non-oil commodity exports. In recent years, the unique flavor of Timor-Leste coffee has gained popularity among Chinese consumers. In 2023, China had become the third largest importer of coffee from Timor-Leste, solidifying the Chinese market as an increasingly important strategic partner in Timor-Leste's foreign trade. Deepening cooperation in the coffee industry between China and Timor-Leste holds significant importance for promoting the upgrading of bilateral relations. This article takes the coffee industry of Timor-Leste as the research object, beginning with an analysis of its development and challenges, and reviews the existing cooperation between China and Timor-Leste in the coffee sector. Finally, relevant policy recommendations are proposed in the context of the Belt and Road Initiative and Timor-Leste’s long-term coffee development plan.