Timorese Citizens Fear Hunger, Crime, and Economic Decline as Trump’s USAID Halt Threatens Vital Assistance

DILI, TIMOR-LESTE – The recent suspension of U.S. foreign aid under the Trump administration has sparked widespread concern in Timor-Leste, where citizens fear that the abrupt halt to USAID programs could lead to increased hunger, malnutrition, local crime, and setbacks in economic development and community resilience.

Since 2001, USAID has provided more than $250 million in development assistance to Timor-Leste, supporting critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, and governance reform. Among its key contributions, USAID has helped expand access to maternal and child healthcare, improve food security through agricultural programs, and promote small-business growth. The sudden cessation of these funds could disrupt essential services and undermine years of progress in one of Southeast Asia’s youngest nations.

First candlenut shipment to South Boston with the support from USAID.

In his interview with Tatoli.TL, President José Ramos-Horta addressed the issue, stating that while the suspension of USAID programs is concerning, Timor-Leste remains resilient and will seek alternative partnerships to sustain its development efforts. He emphasized the importance of diversifying international support, highlighting ongoing collaborations with regional partners such as Australia, Japan, and the European Union to mitigate the impact of the aid suspension.

Farmers working on the farm with the assistance from USAID.

Analysts warn that the withdrawal of U.S. support could have long-term geopolitical consequences, potentially shifting Timor-Leste’s reliance toward China’s Belt and Road Initiative, which has already made inroads into the region through infrastructure investments. Security experts also fear that without continued economic assistance, unemployment and poverty rates could rise, leading to increased crime and instability.

A girl stands in her parent's farm that supported by the USAID while holding the USAID-branded water bottle.

Furthermore, the U.S. risks losing a valuable opportunity to strengthen its geopolitical influence in Southeast Asia. A report by the Council on Foreign Relations emphasizes that Southeast Asia has a long history of important security and economic ties to the United States and is of strategic interest. The suspension of aid could damage the legitimacy of Western governments in the region, potentially benefiting Beijing's influence.

USAID's initiatives have not only benefited Timor-Leste but have also created economic opportunities for U.S. companies. For instance, in the 1990s, USAID-supported farmers in Timor-Leste offered coffee beans for export amid the nation's struggle for independence, and Starbucks responded by purchasing their coffee. Additionally, McCormick & Company purchases Timorese vanilla, cloves, and pepper, integrating these spices into their global supply chain. These partnerships have fostered mutual economic benefits, enhancing trade relations between the two nations.

USAID assistance to natural disaster victims in Timor-Leste

Moreover, with support from USAID's Farmer-to-Farmer (F2F) program, ACELDA, a Timorese agricultural enterprise, has been exporting over 228 barrels of candlenut oil annually to the Aloha Company in Hawaii. This initiative has not only provided income for local farmers but has also strengthened economic ties between Timor-Leste and the United States. m.facebook.com

As the situation unfolds, Timorese citizens and policymakers remain vigilant, hoping for a swift resolution or alternative measures to fill the void left by USAID’s withdrawal.

Media Laloran Tasi Mane

5 Fevereiru, 2025