Port Vila, Vanuatu – April 4, 2025 — Vanuatu officially launched its participation in the upcoming World Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan during a ceremony held yesterday at Regenerative Vanua in the Number 3 area, Port Vila. The event marked a key milestone in Vanuatu’s preparations to showcase its culture, creativity, and innovation on a global stage.

In a show of national pride and support, the delegation representing Vanuatu at the Expo also received a formal farewell from the Prime Minister, who extended his best wishes and encouragement to the team as they prepared to represent the country on the world stage.

The launch was the result of months of dedicated planning and coordination, led through the National Expo Committee (NEC)—a cross-sectoral team made up of key government stakeholders. The NEC includes the Vanuatu Tourism Office, Department of Tourism, Department of Industry, Department of External Trade, Ministry of Finance, and the Vanuatu Foreign Investment Promotion Agency (VFIPA) and Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Together, these institutions have shaped Vanuatu’s strategy and vision for its pavilion, ensuring it reflects both national priorities and international aspirations.

With the Expo’s overarching theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” Vanuatu will join more than 150 countries in exploring sustainable, inclusive, and forward-looking solutions for global challenges. The Vanuatu Pavilion will feature interactive exhibits, cultural performances, and demonstrations of regenerative practices that highlight the country’s identity, resilience, and commitment to sustainable development.

Director of External Trade and Commissioner General of Osaka Expo, Joe Pakoa Lui, described the Expo as a unique opportunity to strengthen global connections and promote Vanuatu’s identity to international audiences. “Participating in the World Expo 2025 allows Vanuatu to present our unique traditions and sustainable initiatives on an international stage,” he said. “It is an opportunity to engage with global partners, attract investment, and build meaningful partnerships that will benefit our people.”

The launch event also highlighted the important role the private sector will play in the success of the Vanuatu Pavilion. Joanna Spencer, Acting General Manager of the Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Deputy Commissioner General of Osaka Expo, said the Expo presents a valuable opportunity for local businesses and exporters to gain international exposure. “The World Expo is an incredible platform to showcase the quality and diversity of Vanuatu’s products and services,” she said. “From agricultural goods to artisan crafts and tourism experiences, we have so much to offer—and this is our chance to take it to the world stage.”

Martin David, International Relations Expo Lead, said the Expo offers a strategic opportunity for Vanuatu to build lasting global relationships. “This isn’t just about visibility—it’s about connection,” he said. “Over the coming months, I’ll be leading Vanuatu’s engagement with international partners, government representatives, and potential investors to ensure our presence at Expo 2025 opens new doors for collaboration and trade.”

Meanwhile, David Patunvanu, Vanuatu Pavilion Manager, is leading the design and delivery of the visitor experience. “We want people to walk into the Pavilion and feel the spirit of Vanuatu—from the sounds and sights to the stories and solutions we bring to the table,” he said.

World Expo 2025 will take place from April 13 to October 13, 2025, in Osaka, Kansai, Japan, and is expected to attract more than 28 million visitors. Vanuatu’s participation is being coordinated by the Department of External Trade, in close collaboration with the NEC, private sector stakeholders, and civil society partners.

For more information about Vanuatu’s participation in the World Expo 2025 Osaka, email: media@vanuatuworldexpo.com

ENDS