The World Expo 2025, a major global gathering of nations, opened today in the Japanese city of Osaka, with representatives from 161 countries showcasing their cultures, innovations, and economic ambitions.
Organisers expect nearly 30 million visitors over the six-month event, which runs until 13 October on the man-made island of Yumeshima in Osaka Bay.
Poland is among the prominent participants, presenting under the slogan Poland. Heritage that Drives the Future.
The Polish Pavilion, highlighted by The New York Times as one of the "25 Things to See at Expo 2025," blends tradition with modernity through exhibitions on culture, economy, and culinary arts.
Magdalena Skarżyńska, Vice President of the Polish Investment and Trade Agency (PAIH), said that Poland views the event as a major opportunity to promote its economy, culture, art, and cuisine.
A traditional Polish dining table is being prepared by a Gdańsk-based restaurant, offering visitors a taste of regional flavours.
Beyond gastronomy, Poland is also aiming to strengthen its trade relations with Japan.
As part of the effort, economic forums with the participation of 150 companies from Poland and 150 from Japan will be held during the event, Skarżyńska added.
Eliza Klonowska-Siwak, Deputy Commissioner for the Polish Pavilion, highlighted the diversity of Poland’s ambitions at the Expo.
"Of course we’ll be promoting Poland through gaming […] but we’ll also try to enter the Japanese market with cosmetics – which isn’t easy, especially with Korea next door," she said in an interview with Radio Poland.
Klonowska-Siwak pointed to six priority sectors Poland is focusing on, including food and cosmetics.
"Polish cosmetics are perceived as very natural, organic, and free from unnecessary additives," she noted.
"Polish beef is here too – which is surprising," she said, considering Japan’s own Kobe beef tradition.
While acknowledging the challenges of entering the Japanese market, the commissioner remained optimistic.
"With Polish beef, we use different parts of the animal and have to adjust our standards to meet Japanese requirements."
(ał)
Source: IAR, PAP