by InTrieste
As preparations ramp up for the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, the Italian region of Friuli Venezia Giulia is making strategic moves to deepen its connections with Japan. Governor Massimiliano Fedriga, leading a high-profile delegation to the Kansai region, highlighted the growing partnership between Italy and Japan during a packed agenda that included key meetings, a business forum, and an exclusive interview with Nikkei Shinbun, Japan’s leading economic newspaper.
Strengthening Regional Partnerships
During his visit, Fedriga announced that Kyoto Prefecture will be a special guest at Friuli Venezia Giulia’s pavilion at Expo 2025, a move designed to foster cultural and economic exchange. Additionally, the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry has pledged support to encourage Japanese businesses to participate in regional initiatives hosted at the Italy Pavilion. Discussions with Japan’s Ministry of Economy, via its Kansai department, are also underway to transform these collaborations into concrete investments.
“The Kansai region is Japan’s second-largest economic hub after Tokyo and a fertile ground for partnerships in logistics, research, innovation, design, and agrifood,” Fedriga said. “We see great potential here.”
The mission included meetings with Kazuya Suzuki, Vice Governor of Kyoto Prefecture; Kyoko Hirose, Vice President of the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry; and Kazushige Nobutani, Director General of the Kansai Economic Department.
Wine and Exports on the Rise
Regional Councillor for Tourism and Productive Activities Sergio Emidio Bini emphasized the potential for Friuli Venezia Giulia’s wine industry in Japan. “Italy is already Japan’s second-largest wine supplier, and trade in the first half of this year alone grew by 6.1%,” Bini noted. “We aim to build on this momentum by highlighting our region’s premium wines at the Expo and beyond.”
A Historic Alliance
Fedriga stressed that the partnership between Italy and Japan, strengthened by a 2023 bilateral agreement, is not just about trade. “This relationship must grow through the direct involvement of regional and local governments, which play a critical role as international actors supporting diplomacy,” he said. “Friuli Venezia Giulia, as a borderland and gateway to Central and Balkan Europe, brings unique value to this relationship, particularly in today’s unstable geopolitical climate.”
Engaging Japan’s Business Community
In a much-anticipated interview with Nikkei Shinbun, Fedriga shared how Friuli Venezia Giulia and the broader system of Italian regions are preparing for Osaka Expo 2025. The interview was followed by a business forum attended by over 120 Japanese entrepreneurs and cultural leaders, as well as Kansai Ambassador Himeno Tsutomu.
“This was an opportunity to showcase Friuli Venezia Giulia’s strengths to Japan’s business community,” Fedriga said. “We are eager to explore partnerships that will outlast the Expo and create lasting ties between our regions.”
Looking Ahead to Expo 2025
The day ended with a preview of the construction site for the Italy Pavilion, where Friuli Venezia Giulia will feature prominently. As the countdown to Osaka Expo 2025 continues, this mission underscores Italy’s determination to capitalize on the global stage, positioning Friuli Venezia Giulia not just as a regional player but as a vital bridge between Europe and Asia.
