Timor-Leste: cost of living

Are food prices rising in Timor-Leste?

Food and non-alcoholic drink prices in Timor-Leste were 0.6% lower in August 2026 than a year earlier, according to the INETL consumer price index. Rice fell 3.1%, sugar and confectionery 3.2% and fruit 1.8%, while oils and fats rose 6.2% and bottled water and soft drinks 8.9%.

Overall consumer prices fell 0.1% over the same year. The index tracks price changes for a fixed basket of household purchases; it does not show the cost of living compared with other countries. INETL publishes the index monthly, about four weeks after the reference month.

Official sources: INETL: Consumer Price Index, August 2026 (PDF)

What is the poverty rate in Timor-Leste?

41.8% of Timor-Leste's population lived below the national poverty line in 2014, down from 50.4% in 2007, according to the World Bank, which uses national survey results. No later national poverty rate was found in the World Bank data or on the INETL website, checked on 15 October 2026.

National poverty lines are based on the cost of basic food and non-food needs in Timor-Leste, so the rate cannot be compared directly with other countries. INETL publishes household income and expenditure and living standards surveys on its website.

Official sources: World Bank: Poverty headcount at national poverty lines, Timor-Leste · INETL

How fast are prices rising in Timor-Leste?

According to the IMF, consumer price inflation in Timor-Leste was 0.4% in 2025. Its high point since 2005 was 2011, at 13.5%; its low point was 2016, at -1.3%. East Asia & Pacific median: 2.2%; Timor-Leste is 19th highest of 24. Worldwide: 145th of 165.

What is household spending per person in Timor-Leste?

In 2024, household consumption per person in Timor-Leste was $890, according to the World Bank. It is the top of the series, which starts in 2005. It is 22nd highest of 22 in East Asia & Pacific, where the median is $4,470. Of 153 countries with 2024 data, 131st highest.

How many people in Timor-Leste face food insecurity?

In 2021, moderate or severe food insecurity in Timor-Leste was 53.7%, according to the FAO. It is 1st highest of 20 in East Asia & Pacific, where the median is 16.8%. World rank, highest first: 32nd of 145.