Kansai Event report
Kansai Desk Networking with the Monaco Economic Board at The Osaka Expo
On June 30, as part of the Osaka World Expo, the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (CCI France Japon) had the pleasure of hosting a networking event between a delegation of 30 Monegasque companies led by the Monaco Economic Board (MEB) and a selection of Japanese companies.
The event was initially held at the Australian Pavilion due to space availability and began at 11:00 AM with an inspiring and insightful talk by Mr. Jiri Mestecky, Registered Foreign Attorney at Kitahama Partners, a member of the Chamber. Mr. Mestecky highlighted the economic vitality and attractiveness of the Kansai region: a hub of Japanese industry, strategically located at the center backbone, extremely well-connected to the rest of Japan and the world through two major ports and three airports. He emphasized the region's highly skilled and well-educated workforce, thanks to its rich academic ecosystem, combined with significantly lower wage costs and a cost of living that is 15% lower than in the capital. Mr. Mestecky also pointed out the region’s unparalleled cultural appeal, as it represents the historical heart of Japan.
This made for a perfect introduction for the companies from the Principality of Monaco seeking to expand their activities in Japan.
Jean-François Rauch, Regional Director of CCI France Japon, then introduced the Chamber’s mission and activities in the region. This was followed by a joint presentation from MEB representatives Guillaume Rose (CEO) and Justin Highman (Deputy CEO), who highlighted Monaco’s strengths as a destination for international business development and investment. A roundtable session allowed each Monegasque company to briefly introduce itself, paving the way for targeted and meaningful networking opportunities.
At 12:30 PM, the exchanges continued in a friendly atmosphere over a networking cocktail held at the Monaco Pavilion, in the presence of distinguished guests, including:
- Stéphan Bruno, Director of Economic Development for the Prince's Government of Monaco
- Thierry Boutsen, Former Formula 1 pilot, founder and CEO of Boutsen Classic Cars and Boutsen Aviation
- Guillaume Rose, CEO of the Monaco Economic Board
- Justin Highman, Deputy CEO of the Monaco Economic Board
- Emmanuel Marchat, Board Member of the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (CCIFJ) and Managing Director of Stahl Japan
- Jiri Mestecky, Registered Foreign Attorney at Kitahama Partners
This event perfectly illustrates the Principality of Monaco's commitment to strengthening its economic ties with Japan, building on the unique local presence of our Chamber. It reflects a strong and lasting dedication to international economic cooperation, particularly within the strategic framework provided by Expo 2025.
The involvement of Monegasque companies highlights the growing interest of foreign businesses in the Kansai region. Likewise, the strong participation from Japanese companies demonstrates an increasing openness to international collaboration. Often underestimated despite having a GDP comparable to the one of Singapore or the Netherlands, Kansai holds tremendous potential that deserves to be recognized and promoted. The region’s economic future looks promising, and the momentum generated on June 30 is a clear example of that.
We extend our sincere thanks to all the participants and partners who contributed to the success of this event. Thank you for your presence, your energy, and your trust. We look forward to seeing you again very soon at our upcoming events.
