As businesses around the world look for new opportunities in Asia, Osaka is quickly emerging as a key destination for international investment and expansion. Through the dynamic "OPEN!! OSAKA" campaign, the Osaka Prefecture highlights five key advantages that make this bustling metropolis an increasingly appealing choice for global companies aiming to establish or grow their presence in the region.
The success of Osaka’s rise as a business hub can be understood through five strategic pillars, all captured in the acronym OSAKA:
O - Openness: A Culture of Collaboration
Osaka has long been known for its welcoming and collaborative spirit, a legacy rooted in its 400-year history as the commercial and culinary heart of Japan. The city’s business community fosters an environment of warmth and enthusiasm, where international partnerships can flourish. This openness not only enhances the business climate but also drives innovation and collaboration, creating valuable opportunities for foreign enterprises.
S - Smart Investment: Exceptional Cost Efficiency
Osaka offers businesses a compelling value proposition, combining attractive costs with high-quality infrastructure and talent. Office space in Osaka is on average 40% cheaper than in Tokyo, yet the city remains home to a highly skilled workforce. Established industry clusters in sectors like pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and life sciences provide a solid foundation for business development, further enhancing the city's appeal.
A - Accessibility: A Strategic Gateway to Asia
Osaka’s advanced transportation network places it at the center of Asia’s business landscape. With Kansai International Airport offering 24/7 international connectivity to 76 cities worldwide, and a bullet train system that brings Tokyo within a 2.5-hour reach, Osaka offers unmatched accessibility. These factors make the city an ideal base for companies looking to operate across Asian markets, ensuring seamless connections and ease of access.
K - Key to Japan’s Future Growth
As the host city of EXPO 2025, Osaka is poised for transformative growth. The event is expected to generate an economic impact of around 3 trillion yen, sparking major infrastructure improvements and fostering an innovation-driven ecosystem. EXPO 2025 provides a unique opportunity for Osaka to solidify its position as a key gateway for businesses seeking to tap into future opportunities within Japan.
A - Assistance: Comprehensive Business Support
Osaka offers a wealth of support for international companies, making it easier to enter and expand in the Japanese market. Through organizations like the Osaka Business and Investment Center (O-BIC) and the Global Finance One-Stop Support Center Osaka, businesses benefit from significant subsidies, tax incentives, and one-stop consultation services in English. These comprehensive services guide companies through every step of establishing their presence in the region.
Key Statistics Highlight Osaka's Growth
Recent data highlights Osaka's significant growth across various sectors. Kansai International Airport experienced a record 9.46 million foreign passengers in the first half of 2024, surpassing its previous high of 8.67 million in 2019. The city’s startup ecosystem also saw impressive growth, with funding reaching 23.7 billion yen in 2023, a 23% year-on-year increase, making Osaka Japan’s second-largest startup hub after Tokyo. Additionally, the Economist Intelligence Unit ranks Osaka as the 9th most livable city worldwide, based on key factors such as stability, healthcare, education, culture, and infrastructure, further underscoring the city’s growing prominence.
Looking Ahead
With EXPO 2025 on the horizon and ongoing infrastructure development, Osaka presents an unparalleled opportunity for global businesses considering expansion in Asia. The city’s unique blend of historical business strength, modern infrastructure, and forward-looking initiatives makes it an increasingly attractive option for companies seeking to enter one of Asia’s most dynamic markets. As Osaka continues to evolve, it stands ready to become Asia’s next major business hub.
