The Virtual Expo is a digital platform developed by the Japan Association for the 2025 World Exposition. It enables individuals worldwide to explore a virtual site using their personal devices. Each participant’s pavilion will be recreated in the virtual space, and participants are responsible for creating and managing content within their virtual pavilions. The Virtual Expo will be available as a free smartphone app, computer app, and head-mounted device app throughout the Expo period. It will be accessible globally, 24/7, at no cost.

While the Virtual Expo anticipates a high volume of users, there is a limit to the number of users per instance. In case of capacity limitations, new users will be directed to a mirrored virtual world. Daily events will be hosted in the virtual expo, offering users opportunities to explore exhibits, participate in virtual performances and collaborations, and purchase souvenirs through e-commerce. Users can also communicate with fellow visitors via voice and text chat. Additionally, the Virtual Expo will feature augmented reality (AR) functions, allowing digital explanations and performances to enhance real-site exhibitions.

The host will assist each country in showcasing their attractions through Virtual Pavilions and promotional digital content. The Expo organizer will request each country to provide necessary materials (e.g. images and videos) to develop the virtual content and programs and provide support for information dissemination during the Expo period.

Opportunity For Business Matchmaking

The Mozuyan Mall is an online portal set up by the Osaka Prefectural Government to support procurement efforts related to the World Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai. It aims to facilitate business matchmaking between companies/organizations looking to procure Expo-related supplies, services, works and services (buyers) and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based in Osaka Prefecture that can provide these (suppliers).

Key features and functions of the platform include a List of Suppliers, where buyers can search and find potential Osaka-based suppliers by browsing company profiles and available products or services. The platform also offers Business Matchmaking, allowing buyers to post notices calling for quotations and proposals from suppliers, who can then apply and initiate business meetings with interested buyers. Additionally, the platform supports Information Sharing with The Business Mall, ensuring that notices posted on Mozuyan Mall are also shared with The Business Mall, a nationwide business matching platform, expanding the reach to suppliers across Japan.

While overseas suppliers cannot register as suppliers, they can still participate as buyers, allowing them to explore opportunities with Osaka-based SMEs involved in EXPO 2025 – related projects. Here’s how they can engage with the platform:

HERE’S HOW THEY CAN ENGAGE WITH THE PLATFORM