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World Expo remains a vital international platform for Vanuatu to build partnerships, attract investment, and strengthen global cooperation aligned with the country’s sustainable development goals. This statement was made by the Director of External Trade within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Joe Pakoa Lui, who is also the Commissioner-General of the World Expo recently concluded in Japan. Vanuatu joined over 165 countries and international organizations to showcase its potential on the global stage at the international event held in Osaka City. “The Vanuatu Pavilion showcased our country under the theme ‘Resilient Heart, Empowered Lives’, a message that reflects the true spirit and strength of our people,” Mr. Pakoa Lui said in a statement. “It celebrates the resilience of Ni-Vanuatu who, grounded in cultural heritage and community bonds, continue to thrive despite challenges. These are the stories we proudly shared with every visitor who entered our Pavilion. “I am deeply impressed and satisfied with Vanuatu’s participation at Expo 2025 Osaka. The long-term benefits of this experience will continue to enhance Vanuatu’s development and international presence well into the future.” Mr. Lui led a delegation comprising the Deputy Commissioner-General and General Manager (GM) of the Vanuatu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), Wilmaraia Sinumila, and the Japanese Ambassador to Vanuatu, Naohisa Okuda. The delegation includes members of the Vanuatu Pavilion staff, International Relations Manager Martin David, and Vanuatu JICA students studying in Japan. He reflected on Vanuatu’s meaningful participation, emphasizing that each Expo marks another step in the nation’s growth, confidence, and international exposure. VCCI GM Sinumila praised the professionalism and enthusiasm of the Vanuatu Pavilion team, noting their role in elevating the country’s global presence. “Although a small nation of just over 330,000 people, Vanuatu has once again proven its relevance and place among nations through our outstanding participation,” she said. “The team showcased our culture, craftsmanship, and products with passion and depth — an effort that filled me with pride.” She highlighted the strong collaboration between Vanuatu and other Pacific Island nations, emphasizing how regional cooperation strengthened Vanuatu’s role in international diplomacy. Ms. Sinumila called for greater investment in commercial exhibition spaces at future Expos to allow direct sales and promotion of Vanuatu Made products. “Visitors expressed strong interest in purchasing our artefacts and locally made goods,” she explained. “To realize this commercial potential, we must plan strategically, invest in trade-ready spaces, and strengthen public-private collaboration to turn our cultural showcase into sustainable economic opportunity.” Vanuatu’s International Relations Manager, Martin David, described the Japan Expo as a major milestone in promoting the nation’s creativity, innovation, and trade potential. “Expo 2025 has provided Vanuatu with a unique platform to showcase our culture, innovation, and Vanuatu Made products to the world,” said Mr. David. “Over the past six months, our Pavilion welcomed over two million visitors, including international delegates and media representatives, greatly increasing Vanuatu’s visibility and recognition across Asia and beyond.” He acknowledged the dedication of the Pavilion Manager Juliette Petit, staff members Gilbert Mermer, the JICA Vanuatu students, and partners including Nabanga Friendli Pikinini Association, Tsuto Elementary School, Wind Farm, the Expo Pacific Family, NOAIA team, the Japan Embassy, VCCI, and Vanuatu Made companies such as 83 Islands, Tanna Coffee, Vanuatu Bijouterie, Eau des Iles, Gaston Chocolate, and Aelan Chocolate. “Vanuatu’s presence at Expo 2025 has created a lasting legacy of pride, partnership, and possibility — a foundation to build upon for future international expositions. I am truly proud to have represented my land, my ocean, and my people on this global stage,” he said. With the Expo officially concluded, the Vanuatu Pavilion team will remain in Japan until the end of the month to complete the decommissioning process and support the National Expo Committee in finalizing the Expo report and accounts. The forthcoming final report will include a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation of Vanuatu’s six-month exhibition, focusing on participation outcomes, impacts, and long-term benefits. Moving forward, the Government of Vanuatu — through the National Expo Committee — will lead the development of a Vanuatu Expo Strategy, a guiding framework to strengthen planning, coordination, and representation at future international expos. Vanuatu is already preparing to engage in upcoming global exhibitions, including Expo 2027 in Belgrade, Serbia, and Expo 2030 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
