The Monaco Economic Board (MEB) is laying the groundwork for its upcoming trade mission to Japan, which will coincide with the Osaka World Expo in June 2025. With the Principality’s pavilion taking centre stage on Monaco National Day, the mission aims to showcase Monaco’s economic strengths while fostering new opportunities for collaboration with Japanese businesses.
In preparation, MEB Deputy CEO Justin Highman embarked on a reconnaissance trip to Japan earlier this month. His visit marked a promising first step in connecting with key players who will help make this mission a success.
Building key partnerships
Highman’s first stop was with Nicolas Bonnardel, Director General of the France Japan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI France Japan), the oldest and largest foreign chamber of commerce in Japan with over 600 French and Japanese members. Attending the French Japan Business Summit, an event drawing over 1,000 economic leaders, Highman met Jean-François Rauch, Director of the Osaka office of the same chamber.
Another crucial partner identified was the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a major institution that will play a role in raising awareness about Monaco’s business advantages in Japan. The MEB is planning a webinar targeting Tokyo-based companies to promote Monaco as an economic hub, an initiative supported by Monaco’s Consulate in Japan.
Cultural connections and Monaco’s presence in Japan
While the focus remains on business, cultural and tourism ties also play a significant role in strengthening Monaco’s relationship with Japan. During his visit, Highman met with the Principality of Monaco’s Promotion Office team, who primarily oversee tourism initiatives but offer valuable support for events and collaborations.
One such event was the Monaco Azur evening held at the legendary Leica gallery, where Highman attended an exhibition featuring the work of celebrated Japanese photographer Mikiya Takimoto. His original photographic vision of Monaco brought an artistic and cultural flair to the economic discussions, highlighting the power of soft diplomacy in bridging connections.
Next steps: preparing Monaco’s entrepreneurs
As excitement builds for the 2025 trade mission, preparations are well underway. The next milestone comes on 20th January, when Nicolas Bonnardel, Managing Director of CCI France Japan, will visit the Principality. He will offer MEB members insights into Japan’s business culture, highlight opportunities, and provide a tailor-made programme designed to maximise success for Monaco’s companies in the Japanese market.
The Osaka World Expo 2025 is scheduled to take place from 13th April to 13th October 2025, spanning 184 days. The event will be held on Yumeshima Island in Osaka Bay, marking the third time Osaka has hosted a World Expo.
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Photo: Justin Highman, Deputy CEO of the MEB, with Nicolas Bonnardel, CEO of the CCI France Japan, who will be presenting development opportunities in Japan for Monegasque companies on 20 January.