Dubai set to host 2nd edition of Japan Kyoto Trade Exhibition in February 2025

MAICO Enterprises Inc., a leading Japanese trade organisation, has announced the details of the Japan Kyoto Trade Exhibition 2025, an annual regular trade exhibition in Dubai aimed to strengthen bilateral trade ties between the UAE and Japan, driving economic growth and innovation in the region.

The pioneering three-day exhibition will open its doors to the visitors at the DWTC Hall 4 on 10 February 2025, to showcase a diverse range of Japanese industries, from traditional crafts to cutting-edge technologies, providing a platform for meaningful connections and economic growth. This was announced during a press conference in Dubai on Sunday.

During the press conference, leaders of Japanese companies operating in various sectors stressed the importance of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) being negotiated between Japan and the UAE and its role in enhancing bilateral trade and to drive business expansion in the UAE and the Middle East region.

On September 18, the UAE and Japan announced the start of talks on reaching a comprehensive economic partnership agreement, which aims to open new horizons of development partnership to support the prosperity and sustainable economic growth of the two countries and their peoples.

Toshimi Yamazaki, President and founder of Ringo Inc, and Executive Advisor of the Japan Trade Exhibition Organising Committee, said at the press conference in Dubai on Sunday, through live video: “Tomorrow marks the UAE’s Eid Al Etihad , and we are honored to hold this press conference at such a meaningful time. This exhibition is the largest B2B platform in the region, presenting Japan’s traditional and innovative industries to a dynamic market”.

“It’s a step forward in strengthening cultural and economic ties between our nations considering the recent announcement of the launch of talks towards a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which will foster new avenues for collaboration and support the sustainable economic growth of both nations” he added.

Mai Sakaue, Executive Committee Chairperson, Japan Trade Exhibition, and CEO of MAICO Enterprises Inc., stated, “The first edition in 2024 primarily featured exhibitors from Kyoto. In February 2025, we will bring together exhibitors from across Japan, representing industries as diverse as food, beauty, architecture, and even space technology. This event is not only an opportunity for business connections but also a celebration of Japan’s industrial and cultural diversity”.

Rina Fujihashi, Organising Committee Member, said, “Our first edition saw 95 exhibitors and attracted approximately 12,000 visitors. For 2025, we aim to host 150 exhibitors and welcome up to 30,000 visitors, including business leaders and general attendees interested in Japan’s heritage, innovations, and opportunities”.

Noriaki Hirao, President, CEO and Founder of Planetway Corporation, said, “Our participation in the first edition opened doors to new opportunities. While presenting our data-sovereignty solutions based on Estonian e-government systems, we received immediate interest from Dubai investors, highlighting the region’s dynamism. We’re excited about the possibilities this exhibition offers as we establish Dubai as a hub for our Middle East and Africa operations”.

With an anticipated attendance of over 30,000 trade and public visitors, the show is poised to be the largest Japanese business matching show in the Middle East, fostering collaboration and cultural exchange between Japan and the MENA region.

This premier B2B event serves as a pivotal platform to enhance business partnerships between Japan and the UAE, with a broader focus on the GCC and Mena regions for companies looking to expand or enhance their presence, this exhibition offers a key platform to unlock new growth opportunities.

The Japan Kyoto Trade Exhibition offers participants an exceptional opportunity to explore business ventures, connect with key players, industry leaders, buyers, and decision-makers, engage in cross-cultural exchanges to strengthen ties between Japan and the UAE.