Welcome to São Tomé and Príncipe at Expo Japan 2025

It is with immense honor and enthusiasm that São Tomé and Príncipe prepares to participate in Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan - a global event that will bring together millions of visitors and hundreds of nations under the central theme "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future." This is a unique opportunity for us to showcase the natural, cultural, and historical wealth of our country, providing a true journey to our archipelago.

At our pavilion, we will invite everyone to immerse themselves in the essence of São Tomé and Príncipe. Traditional architecture will take center stage, with the recreation of a typical house that illustrates the daily life of our citizens, allowing visitors to experience our traditions and the authenticity of our way of life. At the heart of our space, we will symbolically transport the geographical location of our country – situated at the center of the world – to reinforce the idea of interconnectedness between people and cultures. This central position, which in the past placed us on the trade and slavery route, today represents a new perspective: a future of unity and cooperation between peoples and nations.

Environmental preservation will also be one of the central themes of our participation, highlighting São Tomé and Príncipe's status as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in the conservation of forests, mangroves, biodiversity, and the promotion of ecological practices that respect nature. The historic coffee and cocoa plantations will also have a prominent place, not only as cultural and architectural heritage, and as a pillar of agricultural diversity, but also as key elements of rural and ecological tourism. Additionally, our world-renowned chocolates, recognized for their exceptional quality and awarded among the best in the world, will be one of the jewels presented to the public.

Beyond celebrating our identity, Expo 2025 Osaka represents a strategic platform for strengthening international relations. Through meetings and interactions, we aim to establish networks with partners and potential investors interested in the sustainable development of our country. The event will also serve to boost collaborations and attract investments in key sectors, ensuring that São Tomé and Príncipe continues to grow in a balanced and integrated way in the global landscape.

We are ready to bring a piece of our archipelago to Japan and share it with the world. Let this be an opportunity to strengthen bonds, spark curiosity, and inspire future partnerships, always with the authenticity and hospitality that define us.

We look forward to having you join us on this unforgettable journey!

Message from the Commissioner-General of São Tomé and Príncipe

Expo 2025 in Japan represents a unique opportunity for São Tomé and Príncipe to showcase the richness and diversity of its culture to the world. On this global stage, our music, dance, art, and cuisine will have the chance to transcend borders, building bridges and celebrating the identity of a resilient and creative people.

EXPO 2025 | JAPAN | SÃO TOMÉ E PRÍNCIPE | 13 APR - 13 OCT | EXPO 2025

EXPO 2025 | JAPAN | SÃO TOMÉ E PRÍNCIPE | 13 APR - 13 OCT | EXPO 2025

Expo 2025: A Global Stage for the Future

Expo 2025, officially known as Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, will be a world exposition held from April 13 to October 13, 2025 in the vibrant city of Osaka, Japan. This edition of the Expo will focus on the theme "Designing Future Society, Imagining Life of Tomorrow", with subthemes centered around sustainability, technological innovation, and the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

As São Tomé and Príncipe prepares to showcase its unique culture and contributions to the world, Expo 2025 presents a powerful platform to share our vision for a sustainable and innovative future.

Sustainable Life at Expo 2025: A Vision for the Future

The choice of the theme "Sustainable Life" for Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, inspired by the overarching theme "Saving Lives", reflects the interconnectedness of environmental preservation, the promotion of sustainable tourism, and the celebration of cultural diversity.

This theme aims to inspire the creation of a society that not only survives but thrives in harmony with nature, building a sustainable future for all. The harmony between cultures is essential, reflecting peaceful coexistence among people of different backgrounds and traditions.

This virtuous cycle fosters a global awareness of the need to safeguard the environment, not just for today, but as a legacy for future generations.

Make waves, make history.

Exploring São Tomé and Príncipe's Historic Cocoa and Coffee Plantations

This theme aims to highlight the historic cocoa and coffee plantations, known locally as "roças," as valuable resources to boost tourism while promoting environmental preservation. We will showcase the rich cultural heritage of these plantations, their role in the local economy, and how sustainable practices can be integrated to ensure a balance between tourism development and environmental conservation.

São Tomé and Príncipe’s participation in Expo 2025 Osaka represents a unique opportunity for the country to showcase its vibrant culture, sustainable practices, and rich heritage to the world. As one of the smallest countries in Africa, São Tomé and Príncipe has often been overlooked on the global stage. However, Expo 2025 provides the perfect platform for this island nation to make its mark on the international community, highlight its contributions to global sustainability, and foster meaningful connections for future growth.

Be Seen. Be Heard.

São Tomé and Príncipe has a rich cultural tapestry, with influences from Africa, Portugal, and the local island traditions. Expo 2025 offers a chance to share this diversity through its music, art, dance, and cuisine. For the people of São Tomé and Príncipe, this is not just an opportunity to introduce their culture to the world, but to affirm their identity and pride in their roots. It is a moment to demonstrate how the nation's history and traditions are deeply interwoven with its forward-thinking vision for the future.

One of the central themes of Expo 2025 is "Designing Future Society, Imagining Life of Tomorrow", with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. São Tomé and Príncipe, with its rich biodiversity, eco-tourism potential, and commitment to environmental conservation, is an ideal representative of this theme. Through sustainable cocoa farming, eco-tourism, and renewable energy initiatives, the country exemplifies how small nations can lead by example in tackling global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.