China–ASEAN Expo push: Timor-Leste is co-hosting and debuting as an ASEAN co-organiser at the 23rd China–ASEAN Expo in Nanning, aiming to expand markets and attract investment, with its pavilion highlighting organic coffee, vanilla, cinnamon, handicrafts and tais textiles. Trade & logistics: The expo spotlights CAFTA 3.0 and the new Pinglu river-to-sea canal, pitched to cut logistics costs and speed goods between China and ASEAN. Green/digital agenda: ASEAN economic ministers in Manila urged deeper integration to strengthen supply chains and resilience, while China–ASEAN cooperation is framed around green technology, sustainability and the digital economy. Investment rules: ASEAN and Hong Kong signed a protocol to amend the ASEAN–Hong Kong investment agreement, aiming for non-discriminatory treatment and more legal certainty for investors. Industry tech showcase: Expo demos range from AI robots to UAV firefighting and urban emergency rescue gear, signaling a broader push toward tech-enabled services and logistics. Regional labour pressure: Australia’s backpacker visa curbs are sparking debate over farm labour needs, with PALM recruitment including Timor-Leste flagged as a fallback.