TOKYO -- With the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai set to open on April 13, about 43% of companies surveyed nationwide expressed optimism that the event will positively impact Japan's economy, according to a recent poll by business research firm Teikoku Databank Ltd.

While expectations are growing regarding increased tourist inflow and infrastructure enhancement, companies located farther from western Japan's Kansai region, particularly in the Tohoku and Kanto regions -- in the country's northeast and east around Tokyo, respectively -- appeared relatively cautious. Some respondents cited insufficient promotional efforts and questioned the Expo's significance.

When asked about the anticipated positive impact of the Expo on Japan's economy, 9.4% of responding firms said they "expect benefits," while 34.1% indicated they "somewhat expect benefits," bringing the total positive responses to 43.5%. Conversely, companies that were less hopeful totaled 56.5%, with 18.4% replying they "do not expect benefits," and 38.0% stating they "do not particularly expect benefits."

Regional disparities in enthusiasm were also clear. Osaka, where the event is being held, topped the optimism scale with 62.0% of companies expressing hopes for an Expo windfall. Neighboring prefectures Hyogo (57.9%) and Kyoto (56.1%) exceeded the national average as well. In contrast, the Hokkaido, Tohoku and Kanto regions, distant from Osaka, registered optimism rates only around the 30% range.

Businesses in these regions noted skepticism, with one respondent from Tokyo in specialized services commenting that the Expo "just isn't gaining momentum." Another from an electrical machinery manufacturer in Shizuoka Prefecture remarked, "Regional companies have limited exhibit space and time slots, and I don't feel promotion efforts have been sufficient."

Among expected specific economic benefits (multiple answers allowed), respondents most frequently cited "an increase in domestic and foreign tourist numbers" at 64.0%. This was followed by the enhancement of international recognition and image of Osaka and the Kansai region (34.5%), infrastructure improvements (31.7%), showcasing Japan's advanced technologies (27.1%), and stimulative effects on private-sector business activities (23.8%).

Some businesses already reported tangible positive outcomes. A respondent involved in various retail goods in Mie Prefecture noted, "To align with the Expo, many railways across the Kinki region (around Osaka) began accepting credit cards at ticket gates. That's an excellent example of infrastructure improvement."

However, the survey also uncovered more pessimistic views, such as those questioning the Expo's relevance amid widespread international travel and online connectivity, along with skepticism about the event generating returns commensurate with the money invested.

The online survey, conducted from April 4 to 8, collected responses from 1,486 companies nationwide.

(Japanese original by Yuko Shimada, Tokyo Business News Department)