EMG-MRT Ilimanu, Lda., together with its joint venture partner Murak Rai Timor, E.P. (MRT), participated in the China (Guangxi)–Timor-Leste Mining Cooperation Meeting held in Nanning, China, on 17 September 2026.
The meeting brought together representatives of geological institutions, industry associations, universities, engineering organizations, equipment manufacturers, and enterprises from Guangxi to explore opportunities for cooperation in Timor-Leste’s emerging mining and downstream processing industries.
Both sides reached broad agreement in principle on priority areas including further exploration and green quarry development for the Ilimanu White Marble Project, calcium carbonate and comprehensive utilization of marble resources, processing facilities and industrial-park planning, equipment and technical cooperation, and professional training.
Developing the Ilimanu Marble Value Chain
Discussions focused on how Timor-Leste can move beyond quarry extraction toward local processing, manufacturing and higher-value products. Potential opportunities include the use of marble off-cuts and powder in calcium carbonate, engineered stone and construction materials, subject to further technical and commercial assessment.
Connecting China and ASEAN Industries
The meeting also discussed the proposed ASEAN Stone & Calcium Carbonate Industry Ecosystem Cooperation Platform, an EMG-MRT initiative intended to connect mineral resources, technology, investment, equipment, processing, design and markets through practical regional partnerships.
Next Steps
Following the meeting, EMG-MRT prepared a report for MRT outlining the outcomes and proposed workstreams. The company will continue discussions with relevant Guangxi partners and coordinate with MRT and Timor-Leste’s mineral authorities on matters requiring institutional or regulatory involvement.
Further cooperation opportunities may be discussed in connection with the China (Guangxi)–ASEAN Mining Cooperation Conference scheduled for November 2026. No binding project commitments are implied by the meeting’s agreement in principle.
Through these initiatives, EMG-MRT aims to support sustainable development of the Ilimanu White Marble Project and contribute to Timor-Leste’s broader mineral-based industrial development.
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