This programme features the participation of Bulgarian small and medium-sized organisations engaged in practical initiatives across the fields of medicine, health technology, probiotics, dietary supplements, and medical IT. Through dialogue and collaboration with relevant institutions in Japan, it aims to promote mutual understanding and cooperation in addressing healthcare and wellness-related challenges.

In addition, the programme explores the potential for joint research between Bulgaria and Japan in advanced fields such as medical science, robotics, and AI interaction, encouraging academic and scientific exchange led by universities and research institutions.

Through these efforts, the programme seeks to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the health and medical sectors, contributing to the realisation of a more inclusive and sustainable future society.

【Reflection】
On June 26, 2025, the presentation titled “HEALING THE FUTURE: BULGARIAN MEDICAL EXCELLENCE” was held at the Bulgaria Pavilion of Expo 2025 in Osaka. The event featured 15 leading Bulgarian companies in the medical and healthcare sector, each showcasing their cutting-edge technologies and specialized expertise.

The participating companies represented a wide array of fields, including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, digital health, AI, clinical trial support, preventive care, dietary supplements, and natural cosmetics. Their solutions garnered strong interest from attendees, particularly in the following areas:
・Proposals that directly address pressing societal needs such as aging populations, chronic disease management, and healthcare digitalization
・Products that meet Japan’s stringent quality and certification standards, including CE marking and ISO certification
・Potential for collaboration with global corporations, with connections made to companies such as FUJIFILM, Philips, and AWS

Many of the companies also expressed strong interest in expanding into the Japanese and broader Asian markets. Active discussions were held regarding potential partnerships with local distributors, market research opportunities, and joint research and development.
This event served as a powerful platform to showcase the international competitiveness and forward-looking vision of Bulgaria’s healthcare sector, reinforcing the country’s presence and potential at Expo 2025."


【Post EXPO Initiatives】
Building on the momentum of this presentation, the participating Bulgarian companies are preparing to pursue several key initiatives moving forward.

First, efforts to enter the Japanese and Asian markets will be accelerated. Companies are exploring strategies such as establishing distribution networks for medical devices and pharmaceuticals, conducting product testing, meeting regulatory requirements, and forming OEM or joint development partnerships tailored to local market needs.
Strategic partnerships in AI and digital health will also be a major focus. Joint development with hospitals and research institutions, proof-of-concept (PoC) projects in clinical settings, and integration with local technologies are expected to help address pressing challenges in modern healthcare.
In addition, innovative and sustainable healthcare solutions—such as functional foods, hydrogen-based medical therapies, and microbiome-targeted products—are gaining momentum. Companies have shown a strong interest in co-creation with universities, research institutes, and startups to foster new value and future-oriented development.

Looking ahead, Bulgaria’s healthcare and medical industries are poised to strengthen their global presence through a dual focus on technological innovation and international collaboration. With Expo 2025 as a launchpad, deeper and more practical partnerships with Japan and the Asia-Pacific region are expected to flourish in the years to come.