CFZ at Expo Osaka 2025: A Strategic Gateway for Japanese Investment in Sardinia
Introduction
Cagliari Free Zone (CFZ) participated in the “Investing in Sardinia” event on June 26, 2025, at the Italy Pavilion during Expo Osaka 2025. Organized by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT) and Invitalia, this event was a pivotal opportunity to present CFZ’s operational model and unique advantages to a highly qualified audience of Japanese companies and institutional representatives.
Event Highlights
Strengthening Economic Bridges
The event was designed to reinforce economic relations between Sardinia and Japan, focusing on industrial and logistics opportunities for Japanese companies interested in accessing non-EU markets via the CFZ platform. Over 40 Japanese companies attended, representing sectors such as:
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Mechatronics
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Energy
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Logistics
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Semiconductors
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Advanced technologies
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Consulting
CFZ’s Value Proposition
During the panel, CFZ showcased its core strengths:
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Suspension of VAT and Customs Duties: For import, processing, and re-export operations, providing significant cost advantages.
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Privileged Market Access: Direct gateway to the Mediterranean and North African markets.
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Cost Optimization: Efficient management of production costs and full control over critical stages of the value chain.
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Strategic Ecosystem: The CACIP/Port of Cagliari ecosystem offers an already operational free zone and robust institutional support for rapid business setup.
Companies of Strategic Interest
CFZ’s presentation attracted strong interest from several major Japanese corporations, including:
| Company | Sector/Focus | Potential Interest for CFZ |
|---|---|---|
| Sumitomo Heavy Industries | Advanced machinery, industrial equipment, logistics | High: import/export, logistics, re-export |
| Nikon Corporation | Semiconductors, photolithography, optical instruments | Very high: specialist processing, export |
| Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions | Energy, advanced technology | High: energy solutions, tech collaboration |
| Mirapro Inc. | Industrial automation, engineering | High: automation components, assembly |
| Shinohara Electric | Electrical components, automation | Medium-high: logistics, processing |
| NKC Corporation | Automated transport, automotive solutions | Medium: logistics, distribution |
| P-OZONE INC. | Ozone technology, purification equipment | To be evaluated: export potential |
| International Express Co. | Logistics, warehousing | Medium: logistics services |
| Toolnet Japan | Industrial tools, automotive focus | To be evaluated: precision tools export |
| Shiroki Holdings Corporation | Automotive components | Medium: logistics, distribution |
Networking and Next Steps
The networking session enabled CFZ to establish direct contacts with both corporate and institutional representatives. The follow-up strategy includes:
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Analysis of the most promising company profiles
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Organization of dedicated online meetings
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Provision of customized documentation in Japanese
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Preparation for an exploratory mission to Sardinia in 2025
Operational Outcomes
The event confirmed strong industrial interest in CFZ, especially among high-tech companies seeking a customs-advantaged European base. Discussions with Sumitomo, Toshiba, Nikon, and Mirapro are advancing towards potential pilot projects by 2026. Key operational follow-ups include:
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Sending detailed proposals and fiscal simulations
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Scheduling online meetings and technical presentations
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Inviting Japanese stakeholders to exploratory missions in Sardinia
Conclusion
CFZ’s participation in Expo Osaka 2025 has positioned it as a flexible, operational, and competitive platform for Japanese enterprises aiming to expand into Europe and beyond. The ongoing engagement with leading Japanese companies marks a decisive step towards concrete investment projects and long-term partnerships.
For further information or partnership inquiries, please contact the CFZ team.