by InTrieste
For the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, the upcoming World Expo in Osaka represents more than just an international exhibition—it’s a chance to step onto the global stage, capturing the attention of Japan and the broader Far East. And the timing could not be better.
The event, running from April 13 to October 13, 2025, coincides with Japan’s “Golden Week,” a cherished period akin to Italy’s Ferragosto, when much of the country takes time off to travel and celebrate national holidays. With an expected 30 million visitors, Expo 2025 is set to offer Friuli Venezia Giulia unprecedented exposure in a market where it remains relatively unknown.
“The presence of Friuli Venezia Giulia at Expo Osaka is a unique opportunity to showcase the culture, excellence, beauty, and traditions of our region to an audience that still knows little about this part of Italy,” said Massimiliano Fedriga, the region’s governor, at a press conference in Trieste. “Strengthening collaborations with Japan and the Far East is essential, not only culturally but also economically.”
The region will take center stage from April 27 to May 3 within the Italy Pavilion, a striking architectural structure that will feature immersive video installations and dynamic displays. With its own dedicated theme, Friuli Venezia Giulia – The Italy You Haven’t (Yet) Seen, the region hopes to attract curious visitors looking for new Italian destinations beyond Rome, Venice, and Florence.
A Strategic Play for Economic Growth
Beyond tourism, Friuli Venezia Giulia sees Expo Osaka as a gateway to stronger economic ties with Japan and the broader Asian market. The region, known for its strategic port in Trieste, aims to leverage the event to build new commercial routes with the Far East—an increasingly vital link in global logistics.
“Innovation and connectivity are key,” said Fedriga. “The new trade routes that could emerge from this opportunity may become strategic for our region’s logistical development.”
To foster international partnerships, the region has also developed the Innovation Gateway Trieste-Osaka project in collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). Six regional companies—Acetaia Midolini, Molo 17, Vitesy Laboratori Fabrici, Macoritto Valentino, Ros Lavorazione Lamiere, and Vigna Petrussa—have been selected to participate in business-to-business meetings in Tokyo before taking their place at the Expo.
A Cultural Showcase with Deep Roots
The Italy Pavilion, which will house Friuli Venezia Giulia’s exhibit, will reflect the broader theme of Designing Future Society for Our Lives while highlighting the Italian government’s specific focus: The Arts Regenerate Life. Within the pavilion, six artisan-inspired spaces will showcase the region’s unique craftsmanship, from the Scriptorium Foroiuliense in San Daniele del Friuli to the Mosaic School of Spilimbergo and the Lace School of Gorizia. Visitors will also experience the traditions of the Carnic Museum of Folk Arts, the Wood-Furniture Cluster of Manzano, and Pordenone’s Comic Book Palace.
In a nod to the deep cultural ties between Italy and Japan, Friuli Venezia Giulia’s contribution will also include a special theatrical performance. Podrecca in Japan: Music and Puppets for Expo 2025, organized by the Teatro Stabile Rossetti in collaboration with the FVG Orchestra, will feature seven performances by I Piccoli di Podrecca, a renowned marionette company founded in 1914.
Additionally, a new comic book—published in Italian, English, and Japanese with a print run of 30,000 copies—will transport readers on an illustrated journey through the region’s iconic landscapes and culinary traditions. The story follows figures from Japanese folklore as they encounter Friuli Venezia Giulia’s rich cultural and gastronomic heritage.
A Bridge Between Past and Future
For history enthusiasts, the region’s exhibit will include three original artifacts from the UNESCO-listed site of Aquileia: a first-century BCE marble slab depicting the city’s foundation, a second-century CE funerary stele of a gladiator, and a fourth-century CE decorative relief featuring Saints Peter and Paul.
“Japan’s Golden Week is a golden opportunity for Friuli Venezia Giulia,” said Fedriga. “This is our chance to introduce a whole new audience to our region’s beauty, history, and economic potential.”
As Italy continues to position itself as a leader in sustainability, cultural preservation, and innovation, Friuli Venezia Giulia’s presence at Expo 2025 is more than just a moment in the spotlight—it is a strategic move to secure its place on the global map.
Expo 2025 Osaka will take place from April 13 to October 13, with over 160 countries participating. Italy’s Pavilion will host a range of cultural, business, and tourism initiatives, with Friuli Venezia Giulia’s dedicated presence from April 27 to May 3.
Interview: FVG governor, Massimiliano Fedriga
