Colombia has inaugurated its pavilion at Expo Osaka 2025, marking the start of its participation in one of the leading global platforms for economic development, foreign investment, and tourism promotion. Running from April 13 to October 13 under the theme "Colombia, the Country of Beauty," the pavilion aims to offer visitors an immersive experience showcasing Colombia's diverse natural, cultural, and business landscapes.
The opening ceremony featured Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia; Gustavo Makanaky, Colombian Ambassador to Japan; Agustín Vélez, Commissioner of the Colombian Pavilion; Hideyuki Yokoyama, Mayor of Osaka; along with ambassadors, Japanese officials, businesspeople, and sector representatives.
"This pavilion is an open door to the opportunities Colombia offers the world. Here, we showcase a modern, resilient country full of beauty in every sense. Our participation in Expo Osaka is key to continuing to position Colombia as an attractive destination for tourism, investment, and exports in Asia," said Carmen Caballero during the ceremony.
Ambassador Makanaky emphasized: "Colombia’s presence at Expo Osaka 2025 represents an extraordinary opportunity to deepen ties and explore new horizons for cooperation. The Colombian Pavilion we inaugurate today is more than a showcase of our country. It is an open invitation to build a future of collaboration and mutual understanding between our nations."
The pavilion spans 875 square meters and offers a multisensory journey through Colombia's diverse regions. Guided by water as a symbol of life, it features landscapes reminiscent of snowcapped peaks and Macondo's magical world while highlighting biodiversity and sustainability themes. A dedicated area allows visitors to purchase Colombian products.
Colombia's strategy at Expo Osaka includes over 60 investor meetings through the International Business Matchmaking Forum (Macrorrueda) and presenting 15 structured investment projects. In partnership with SMBC bank, a Colombia Business Guide will be introduced.
For tourism promotion, 90 Colombian companies are being trained with a focus on Japanese travelers. A business matchmaking event scheduled from June 2 to 7 will feature ten Colombian companies engaging with international buyers.
In exports, there will be 300 business meetings across sectors like agrifood and fashion systems involving 100 Colombian exporters and 50 Asian buyers.
Colombia-Japan relations have seen growth recently. In 2024, Japan downgraded its travel advisory for Caño Cristales while Cartagena resumed welcoming Japanese cruise ships post-pandemic. Japan remains Colombia's top Asian investor with significant export activities including flowers and cacao products featured at Expo Osaka.
SENA will also contribute by leading strategic projects at thematic weeks aimed at promoting knowledge exchange and internationalizing Colombian talent.
Overall, Colombia's participation in Expo Osaka 2025 seeks to strengthen its position as a strategic partner in Asia while promoting investment opportunities alongside tourism and export initiatives.
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