This week, the Chamber of Commerce officially kicked off its economic programme at Expo 2025 Osaka, with the successful completion of its first in a series of three Official Trade Missions to Japan, that took place from 24 to 31 May 2025.
Organised in close cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs and the Luxembourg Embassy in Tokyo, the mission brough together a delegation of 45 Luxembourg companies, spanning a wide range of sectors.
Honored by the presence of H.R.H. the Grand Duke, H.E. Deputy Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, and Minister Yuriko Backes during the latter part of the programme in Osaka, the mission contributed to Luxembourg’s unwavering commitment to strengthening economic ties and fostering new business opportunities with Japan – one of the world’s most technologically advanced and innovation-driven economies.
Immersion into Japan’s innovation landscape
The mission began in Tokyo with a welcome gathering that set the tone for a week of fruitful discussions and promising opportunities. In his opening remarks, President of the Chamber of Commerce, Fernand Ernster, highlighted the importance of Luxembourg-Japan economic relations, setting the stage for productive engagements throughout the mission.
Over the following days, participants were fully immersed in Tokyo’s vibrant innovation ecosystem through a series of company visits. They toured industry leaders such as Fujitsu Technology Hall, Mitsubishi Fuso, Amazon Japan, Uchida Yoko Co., the Maglev Exhibition Center and FANUC. These visits offered the delegation valuable perspectives on the cutting-edge technologies shaping the industries of tomorrow.
After two enriching days in Tokyo, the delegation continued its journey to Osaka, where the focus shifted to deep-tech and healthcare innovation. Highlights included site visits to the Osaka Heavy Ion Therapy Center and Shimadzu Corporation, providing insights into Japan’s pioneering advancements in medical technologies.
Luxembourg at the World Expo 2025 Osaka
From 29 to 31 May, the delegation enjoyed privileged access to Expo 2025 Osaka.
The first day featured a guided tour of the Expo’s pavilions, each showcasing their own unique vision and contribution to the central theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”. The day concluded with an Official Reception graciously hosted by H.R.H. the Grand Duke, in the esteemed presence of Deputy Prime Minister Xavier Bettel and Minister Yuriko Backes, to celebrate the enduring friendship and longstanding partnership between Luxembourg and Japan.
The second day marked the Luxembourg Day, a special and memorable celebration highlighting the country’s dynamic presence at the Expo. The celebration featured an Official Ceremony, a special gathering at the Luxembourg Pavilion, and a lively concert that brought the festivities to a joyful and memorable close.
Building bridges, forging the future
This mission marked a significant step in strengthening economic ties between Luxembourg and Japan. By connecting businesses across diverse sectors, it opened new doors for collaboration in areas such as advanced manufacturing, digital innovation, and healthcare.
Looking ahead, the Chamber of Commerce will continue to build on this momentum with two upcoming official trade missions to Japan
The first scheduled from 12 to 18 July, focusing on the space sector, a strategic area for cooperation between both nations, and the second from 17 to 23 July, reinforcing collaboration in innovation-driven industries.
