Japanese contractor Toa Corporation has been awarded a contract by Timor-Leste’s Ministry of Transport and Communications for the improvement of Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport in Dili.
The contract is valued at approximately JPY 6.4 billion, with a planned construction period of 28 months. This project will be implemented under the Japanese government’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) grant aid programme.
The two-storey airport features a total floor area of 11,788 sq m. The first storey covers an area of 6,171 sq m, while the second storey covers 5,617 sq m. The design and supervision team for the project comprises a consortium of Japan Airport Consultants Inc, Ehira Architects and Engineers Inc, Oriental Consultants Global Co Ltd, and Nippon Koei Co Ltd.
Timor-Leste formally joined ASEAN in 2025 and is advancing economic development as a member of the Southeast Asian region. Amid a rising population –particularly among younger generations – and increasing human and economic exchanges within and beyond the region, the development of key infrastructure, including transportation and logistics systems, has become an important national priority to support the country’s sustainable growth.
Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport serves as the country’s primary gateway by air and functions as a core infrastructure facility handling both international and domestic flights. However, the existing facilities face challenges in terms of capacity and safety. Upgrades have therefore been required to meet the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and to enhance functionality in anticipation of future growth in air traffic demand.
Toa Corporation has previously participated in numerous infrastructure development projects in Timor-Leste, including ports, water supply systems and irrigation facilities, continuously contributing to the country’s reconstruction and development.
For the improvement of Presidente Nicolau Lobato International Airport, Toa Corporation will also utilise the technical expertise and construction management know-how it has cultivated both in Japan and overseas in the fields of building construction and infrastructure development to ensure the successful completion of the project.
“Looking ahead, we will continue to promote projects that contribute to the sustainable growth of Timor-Leste and the development of local communities through infrastructure development in the country, where further progress is expected in the years to come,” said the contractor.
All images: Toa Corporation
