the Nordics under the same roof at world expo

The Nordic countries — Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Iceland — participated in the Osaka World Expo 2025 with a joint pavilion, with the aim of strengthening ties with Japan and Japanese companies.

Highlighting the Nordic values and way of living

At the World Expo 2025, the Nordic pavilion showcased the region's shared values, ways of working, and lifestyle. Nordic societies are founded on trust, and the countries are committed to sustainability — both of which are essential pillars for building a better future. Trust, optimism and collaboration were also key Nordic values that helped us to enhance our partnerships in the Japanese market.

Together with our partner companies, the countries presented an aspirational vision of what a sustainable, trust-based world could look like. Designed by Italian architects RIMOND, the 1,200 m² Nordic pavilion was a timber structure that evoked timelessness and sustainable thinking. It housed the Nordic exhibition 'Nordic Circle', as well as a Nordic restaurant and a shop. The pavilion also had a conference room and meeting spaces.

Key themes at the Nordic pavilion were Green Transition & Circular Economy, Mobility & Connectivity, and Lifestyle & Wellbeing. In addition, the project also incorporated cross-cutting themes Sustainability and Digitalization, that are visible in all activities of the pavilion.

The Nordic Circle's exhibition won the Gold Award in the "Exhibition Design" category at the Iconic Awards 2025, organised by the German Design Council. It was also awarded gold in the 'Best Exhibit/Display' category at the World Expo Olympics. 

Finland brought HAPPINESS to the table 

Finland is the happiest country in the world and this was highlighted during Finland's events at Expo 2025, especially on Finland’s National Day, June 12. Finland also organized many thematic industry days and participated in the Nordic joint theme days. 

Finland’s participation, managed by Business Finland, was supported by sponsoring partners including Nokia, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Finnair, Metsä Group, Nordic Metaverse Day, City of Jyväskylä, Business Oulu, and Mökki 5G, as well as numerous joint collaborations that underscored the country’s world-leading expertise and innovative spirit during their event days. 

Expo 2025 strengthened and opened important diplomatic and business doors between Finland and Japan. During its six-month run, the Expo hosted President Alexander Stubb and numerous Finnish ministers, as well as a large number of Japanese VIPs. 

Culture plays an important role in attracting visibility and interest to a major event. These photos are from Finland's National Day, which focused on fashion and music. The day's main performers were Tuuletar and Käärijä.