Manganese Exploration in Timor-Leste: Unlocking the Potential of Lautém

Mining and Diversification

Timor-Leste is diversifying its economy on the back of its mineral wealth, including manganese, a vital resource in both the global steel industry and modern technologies like batteries. Manganese is key to strengthening steel, and plays an important role in energy storage, which is at the heart of electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy systems.

Timor-Leste's exploration efforts are centered in the Lautém municipality, in the country's northeastern region, covering 121.5 square kilometers. This initiative, led by Estrella Resources, an Australian mining company, is of great importance for the country if it is to expand its industrial base beyond oil and gas​. 

Estrella Resources and the Lautém Concessions

Estrella Resources has secured rights to explore three concession areas in Lautém. The company identified high-grade manganese deposits during field visits, showing significant potential for future mining operations. Estrella Resources has been actively involved in building relationships within Timor-Leste for over a decade, successfully positioning itself as a leader in developing the country's mining industry​.

Estrella’s role in Timor-Leste is not just about extraction but also about partnerships. It is working closely with Murak Rai Timor, the national mining company, to explore and develop these resources. Murak Rai Timor, established in 2023, oversees the country's mineral assets and ensures that local communities benefit from mining activities​. This partnership reflects a broader strategy by Timor-Leste’s government to attract foreign investment while retaining control over its natural resources.

The Economic Importance of Manganese

Apart from its importance for energy storage, manganese is also essential to the production of steel, where it is used to improve durability. As the world moves toward greener technologies, manganese's role becomes even more critical, and for Timor-Leste this is a welcome addition to its efforts for developing sustainable industries​.

Oil and Gas: The Foundation for Growth

While mining is becoming a new area of focus, oil and gas remain the backbone of Timor-Leste’s economy. The Bayu-Undan field, located offshore, has provided more than $25 billion in revenue since production began in 2004. Companies like Santos, an Australian energy company with a strong presence in the Asia-Pacific region, are still active in the region, exploring options to repurpose the field for carbon capture and storage projects as oil production winds down. The revenue from oil and gas will continue to fund Timor-Leste’s future projects, including mining, making it a crucial component of the country’s economic diversification plans.

Environmental Responsibility and Community Involvement

Timor-Leste’s national mining regulator, Autoridade Nacional dos Minerais, has set strict guidelines to ensure that exploration and mining activities do not harm the environment​. This is particularly important in Lautém, a region that is home to rich biodiversity. The regulator also ensures that local communities are included in these projects, providing job opportunities and investing in infrastructure development. Estrella Resources, in partnership with Murak Rai Timor, has committed to working closely with the communities in Lautém to ensure long-term benefits​ for them.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Developing a mining industry from scratch presents challenges. The country needs infrastructure improvements, particularly in transport and logistics, to support large-scale extraction. Training programs will be required to build local expertise in mining. However, the opportunities outweigh the challenges. With rising global demand for manganese and Timor-Leste's proximity to major markets in Australia and Southeast Asia, the country is well-positioned to benefit economically.

Summary: A Balanced Future for Timor-Leste

Timor-Leste is taking decisive steps toward building a diversified economy that balances its historic reliance on oil and gas with new opportunities in mining. The exploration of manganese in Lautém is a key development that could unlock new revenue streams while supporting the country’s goals of sustainability and community development. With responsible exploration and strong partnerships, Timor-Leste can look forward to a prosperous future built on both its natural resources and its people.