Scottish game developers are preparing to take centre stage at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, this April. As part of a larger Scottish delegation showcasing expertise in creative industries, life sciences, and offshore wind, the games sector will have a dedicated day on 17th April to connect with potential buyers, investors, and advisors.
Eight Scottish games companies, including some supported through the Scottish Government’s Techscaler business accelerator, will be making the trip to Osaka and Tokyo. This high-profile event offers a significant opportunity to promote their work on a global stage and forge valuable international partnerships.
Among the participating studios is Edinburgh-based Keelworks, developer of the critically acclaimed Cygni: All Guns Blazing. Having already established a relationship with Japanese publisher Konami, Keelworks will be looking to further strengthen connections and expand its reach within the Japanese market.
Meher Kalenderian, Chief Executive of Keelworks, emphasised the importance of the Expo visit for “strengthening connections, driving investment, and opening new doors for collaboration.” He acknowledged the vital support of the Scottish Government in making their participation possible, stating that it “enables us to get to these events, make connections with publishers and investors.”
Business Minister Richard Lochhead recently visited Keelworks’ studio in Rutland Square to launch the Expo programme and learn more about their export success. He will be among several Scottish ministers attending Expo 2025, which runs from 13th April to 13th October and is expected to attract approximately 28 million visitors from over 150 countries. Scotland’s presence at the Expo is supported by Scottish Enterprise.
“This is an opportunity for Scotland to showcase and shine on the global stage,” said Mr. Lochhead. “The games sector in Scotland is phenomenal and has massive potential to grow further.” He also highlighted the need for Scotland to better promote its successes, noting that “Scotland has a great story to tell, but we don’t tell it enough.” An industry-led games strategy is currently in development and due for publication, which is expected to further support the sector’s growth.
The Expo 2025 visit represents a significant opportunity for Scottish games businesses to expand their international presence, attract investment, and collaborate with partners from around the world. It also highlights the growing recognition of the Scottish games industry as a key driver of economic growth and cultural influence.
Beyond games, Scotland and Japan are also developing strong ties in the renewables sector, which will also be showcased at the Expo. Scotland’s commitment to international engagement is further underscored by the appointment of its first Trade Envoy to Japan in October 2024.