Meeting on Expo 2025, Osaka, Kansai, Japan

On September 16, 2025, Prime Minister Ishiba held a meeting on Expo 2025, Osaka, Kansai, Japan, at the Prime Minister’s Office.

At the meeting, the participants engaged in discussions on the operational status since the opening and on preparations for the closing.

Based on today’s meeting, the Prime Minister said:

“I am pleased that some of the members have come all the way from Kansai today. Thank you very much for taking time out of your busy schedule. I am grateful for your cooperation.

As the ‘inviting Government’ pursuant to the Convention Relating to International Exhibitions, our Cabinet has been making utmost efforts to organize Expo 2025, Osaka, Kansai, Japan through a government-wide approach in cooperation with Osaka Prefecture, Osaka City, the business community, and the Expo association.

As five months have passed since the opening ceremony in April, various exhibitions and events took place under the theme of ‘Designing Future Society for Our Lives.’ As Director General Mogi mentioned, more than 20 million people have visited the Expo thus far. Ticket sales, which had been a matter of concern, have now exceeded 21 million. We must not become complacent, but the prospect of achieving profitability is now within sight.

Business exchanges are being promoted, including business match-ups involving startups in various fields including healthcare. At the same time, Expo visitors are also traveling to various parts of Japan, contributing to regional revitalization.

Over 50 foreign leaders have visited Japan on the occasion of the Expo. This brings valuable diplomatic opportunities for me, including more than 40 summit meetings. As the host of the Expo, it is our responsibility to share its achievements and experiences, pass them on to future generations, and ensure that the Expo will not be a mere transient event.

To this end, we will establish a framework for discussions among experts and relevant parties under the leadership of Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Muto and Minister in charge of the World Expo 2025 Ito. This framework will gather opinions of diverse stakeholders and review the outcomes of the Expo and consider concrete measures to carry forward its legacies in a transparent manner.

Along with tangible legacies such as the Grand Ring, intangible legacies are also important, including the social implementation of emerging innovations triggered by the Expo. I would like you to deepen discussions so as to ensure broad public understanding.

There are 27 days to go until the closing. The suspension of subway services on August 13 caused inconvenience to visitors. Building on this reflection, we need to redouble our efforts in managing the Expo so that visitors can enjoy the remaining period of the event in safety.

What matters most is that all those involved work together as one to successfully hold the closing ceremony. We have 27 days left. I would appreciate your continued support. Thank you very much.”