Osaka hosts government-backed Mice Safety EXPO as it prepares to reopen industry

The Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau recently staged the Osaka MICE Safety EXPO in Japan, an exhibition presenting new ideas for safe MICE events. The event welcomed 4,000 visitors and 144 exhibitors to INTEX Osaka. It showcased the latest methods and products for disease control and safe event management, as Japan begins to tentatively reopen its MICE industry. The event was supported by Osaka’s prefectural and city governments. It received backing from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, as well as the Japan Tourism Agency and the Japan National Tourism Organization. In a statement, the organisers commented: “We believe that the success of the Osaka MICE Safety EXPO marks a catalyst in the revival of Japan’s MICE industry. “Using the success of this event as a springboard, we are aiming for a 50% recovery in FY 2021 and a complete recovery in FY 2022 for the MICE industry, and will continue to support organizers in holding successful events as well as foster the momentum and vitalization of the MICE industry.” Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau President Hiroshi Mizohata also added: “The Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau is giving its all to promoting the holding of events as much as possible and is aiming for Japan to be a top runner in the industry, but it is thanks to efforts of the many industry professionals, Osaka City, and INTEX Osaka that Osaka has become so valiant in fighting to be able to hold MICE events. “I truly feel once again that Osaka’s energy is moving Japan’s MICE industry. I have come to feel that from many different perspectives MICE events must be held in-person, which is why we here want to make a declaration for in-person events. Together, let’s give it our all as we head for the light at the end of the tunnel.”