Portugal will participate based on two pillars: culture and economy, with a diverse program that includes events, artistic performances, and economic seminars. Ricardo Arroja, president of AICEP, highlighted the potential of this international presence: “This is an opportunity to strengthen ties with Japan and increase Portugal’s visibility throughout Asia.”

Expo 2025 Osaka will feature 161 countries and 7 international organizations, with around 28 million visitors expected. It will be held in Yumeshima, an artificial island built especially for the event. Portugal’s participation will focus on Sustainable Development Goals 7 (affordable and clean energy) and 14 (life below water), underlining the country’s commitment to sustainability and the oceans.

“Portugal is a country with a strong maritime identity. We have jurisdiction over almost half of the European Union’s marine waters. Our presence at the Expo will be anchored in these values, striking a balance between tradition and modernity,” said Ricardo Arroja.

Among the main objectives of Portugal’s presence are to strengthen its international profile, encourage visits and investment in Portugal, promote the Blue Economy, and recognize national creative talent.

The program will feature highlights such as the inauguration, Portugal Day (May 5), June 10, and the closing ceremony. On the cultural side, performances by artists such as Ana Moura, Camané, Dino d’Santiago, and Carminho have already been confirmed.

Blue Economy, innovation, and talent in the spotlight

The economic program will address strategic areas such as renewable energy, marine biotechnology, fishing, logistics, and transportation. At the same time, four thematic seminars will be held in Tokyo, focusing on Mobility (May 2), Life Sciences (July 1), Defense (August 8), and Blue Economy (September 24).

“Portugal is now a benchmark in environmental protection, with an integrated approach to sustainable development,” said Ricardo Arroja. “Expo Osaka opens up a sea of opportunities to strengthen Portuguese-Japanese cooperation.”

Currently, around 1,000 Portuguese companies export to Japan, which in 2024 was the 31st largest customer for Portuguese goods. One of the main objectives of Portugal’s participation is precisely to consolidate and expand this relationship.

Carlos Abade, in turn, emphasized the strategic value of the event for national tourism: “The Expo is a showcase for Portuguese culture, heritage, literature, and gastronomy in one of the most important source markets in the world.”

A pavilion that celebrates the ocean and Portuguese identity

The 1,836 m² Portugal Pavilion is located next to the Japanese pavilion and was designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. The structure consists of 9,972 suspended ropes, weighing a total of over 60 tons, evoking the movement of waves.

Inside, there is a shop selling products from 25 Portuguese companies, with a total of 243 items. Commissioner-General Joana Gomes Cardoso estimates that the space will receive around 1.2 million visitors: “We are confident with the preparations on the ground and with the receptiveness already shown.”