Pre-COP31 Climate Diplomacy: Australia’s taxpayer-funded pre-COP summit in Fiji is drawing criticism after only two non-Pacific leaders—Timor-Leste’s José Ramos-Horta and Mauritius’ Navin Ramgoolam—confirmed attendance, leaving organisers to justify a reported $20m-plus cost. ASEAN Economic Linkages: Indonesia and Timor-Leste are pushing fresh cooperation after Timor-Leste’s ASEAN accession, with Bali highlighting tourism, agriculture, livestock and trade opportunities. Agribusiness & Exports: Timor-Leste marked a trade milestone with the first export of Laga salt to New Zealand (300 tonnes), part of efforts to scale production and cut import dependence. Energy & LNG Plans: Timor-Leste is also considering a second LNG project on the south coast, alongside work toward a larger Timor LNG development, with offshore surveys already underway. Shipping & Logistics Costs: Maersk announced a peak-season surcharge on dry-container shipments from Southeast Asia to Oceania starting 1 Nov 2026, including Timor-Leste. Security & Fraud Risk: Timor-Leste detained 16 people in Dili over an alleged scam impersonating Japanese police, using staged props and Japanese-language scripts. Regional Energy Transition Pressure: A Southeast Asia survey (including Timor-Leste) flags rising energy prices and cost of living as the top concern, with energy shortages also climbing.