Malta is making a bold and multifaceted statement on the global stage at the Osaka Expo. Nestled within the Empowering Lives zone, near the event’s striking water feature, Malta’s pavilion is a vibrant symbol of the island nation’s resilience, innovation and enduring ties with Japan. Its participation blends tradition with transformation, offering a glimpse into a Mediterranean country with a global outlook.
“Malta is fully committed to participating in the Osaka Expo 2025,” said Andre J. Spiteri, ambassador of Malta to Japan and general commissioner of Malta for the expo. “The theme, ‘Catch the Wave, Catch the Opportunity,’ highlights Malta’s resilience, sustainability and innovation. We have designed a well-structured program focusing on both business networking and cultural exchange, as these elements are interconnected.”
Malta’s presence at the expo is not just a celebration of culture, it’s a strategic effort to promote a dynamic economy with strong links to Asia, especially Japan. The island’s compact size belies its depth in sectors such as financial services, education, digital innovation and tourism.
“Visit Malta has been a pioneer in promoting Malta in Japan,” highlighted Carlo Micallef, CEO of the Malta Tourism Authority. “The upcoming Osaka Expo is another key opportunity for all major Maltese agencies to promote our destination. Malta offers not only tourism, but also opportunities in financial services, investments and trade with Japan.”
This multisectoral message is clearly conveyed in the Malta Pavilion. Whether through its vibrant displays of cultural heritage, engaging networking events, or business forums, Malta intends to present itself as a safe, forward-looking partner for Japanese investors, students and innovators alike.
Shared history, new horizons
Malta and Japan enjoy a long-standing diplomatic relationship, marked by cultural exchanges and mutual respect. One of the most poignant symbols of this bond takes center stage at the Malta Pavilion: a set of samurai armor gifted to Malta in 1862 by a Japanese delegation during the Bunkyu diplomatic mission. Now meticulously restored, the armor will be displayed in Osaka, reminding visitors of the historical ties that connect the two nations.
The armor is, “a symbolic representation of this cultural bond,” explained Ian Borg, Malta’s deputy prime minister and minister for foreign affairs and tourism. This gesture honors the past but also speaks to a future of deeper collaboration between Malta and Japan.
While sun-soaked coastlines and historic cities remain central to Malta’s tourism appeal, the expo provides a chance for the country to showcase its broader offerings to Japanese travelers. In particular, its blend of influences from its continental neighbors makes it a cultural melting pot unlike any other destination in Europe. “Many Japanese travelers have visited cities like Paris, Rome and London. Now it’s time to explore Malta — a unique blend of European, North African and Middle Eastern influences,” emphasized Micallef. “We present Malta as a safe, Mediterranean destination with a deep cultural heritage for Japanese travelers and businesses alike.”
Given the ever-growing desire of tourists to go on tours to historic sites and gain a deeper understanding of the place they are visiting, its history and its traditions, Malta is well placed to appeal to visitors from Japan, a country steeped in history. “Cosmopolitan, multicultural and welcoming, Malta is a place where visitors quickly feel at home and discover a wealth of experiences all within a short distance,” Micallef said.
Moreover, Malta is positioning itself as a hub for educational tourism. The Malta Pavilion will emphasize the country’s growing reputation for offering specialized English-language courses, tailored to professionals from various sectors, including aviation, health care and law.
A platform for innovation
Beyond tourism and culture, Malta is also using the Osaka Expo to highlight its advancements in sustainability, digital health and disaster preparedness — topics that align closely with its main theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” “At Expo 2025, the theme of Malta’s pavilion fits hand in glove with the event’s main theme,” Borg added. “Malta will be showcasing its innovations in environmental sustainability, health care preparedness and disaster resilience. It will also explore themes such as digital technologies in health, education, nutrition and workplace innovation.”
From artificial intelligence-driven transport systems to digital maritime certifications, Malta is embracing technology as a means of enhancing quality of life and preparing for future challenges. These initiatives are demonstrated interactively in the pavilion, engaging visitors in Malta’s tech-forward vision.
One of Malta’s most compelling messages at the expo is its strategic location. Positioned between major landmasses, it is a natural gateway for Japanese companies looking to expand across three continents. Its European Union membership, English-speaking workforce and stable business environment make it a preferred base for trade, logistics and finance.
“Despite importing many goods, we export high-quality tuna — regarded as a delicacy in Japan — which contributes to our favorable trade balance. This strong relationship is highlighted at the expo, where Malta will promote tourism, trade, finance and gaming under one message: authentic Malta, rooted in tradition and artisanal quality,” Micallef said.
The success of Malta’s participation will depend on the collaborative efforts of both public and private stakeholders. “We aim to strengthen our relationship with Japan through our country’s participation at Expo 2025, which is providing a unique opportunity we want to make the most of with the support of various Maltese public and private stakeholders,” Spiteri emphasized.
The program for Malta’s presence includes business matchmaking events, cultural performances, educational seminars and culinary showcases, all designed to leave a lasting impression on Japanese visitors and global attendees alike.
Malta’s message is clear: It is a country of substance and style, rooted in tradition yet embracing innovation and ready to deepen its ties with Japan. “Catch the Wave, Catch the Opportunity” is more than a slogan. It is a call to discover Malta’s unique mix of opportunity, authenticity and global vision.
From the shores of the Mediterranean to the vibrant setting of Osaka, Malta is ready to ride the wave into the future — and is inviting the world to join in.
https://info.japantimes.co.jp/international-reports/pdf/20250717-GI_Malta.pdf
https://global-insight.net/
