About the Baltics
The Baltic Sea binds together a unique region, rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here, on its eastern shores, Latvia and Lithuania – two nations descended from ancient Baltic tribes – share not just a border, but also the sole living Baltic languages, that have withstood the trials of time, embodying our resilience in preserving our values across generations.
At Expo 2025 Osaka, these two Baltic nations unite in a single pavilion to demonstrate how traditional wisdom and modern innovation can work together in addressing global challenges.
Together, they showcase how technology can serve humanity’s needs while preserving the delicate ecosystems we all depend on – from the Baltic Sea to the world’s oceans, from ancient forests to modern cities. In the Baltic Pavilion, visitors discover how two unique nations share one vision: a world where heritage, technology, and environmental stewardship unite to forge a sustainable future.
Latvia
- Restless in nature, united in mission
- Capital: Riga
- Population: 1.9 million
- GDP 40.35 billion EUR, 2023
- Currency: Euro
- NATO and EU member state since 2004
- Government: Parliamentary Republic
Located in Northern Europe on the Baltic Sea, Latvia is a land of true forests and lakes, where the heritage preserved by our people, rich traditions, and deep connection to nature inspire future innovation and technology. Its history and traditions reach back several millennia and have long been the groundswell for the creation of both restless minds and talented people.
When it comes to developing its economy, Latvia has placed a strong focus on driving innovations and is adapting its business landscape to make this reality. That’s why the country is focused of high-value dynamic sectors like startups, R&D, and smart sectors that include biomedicine, ICT, smart materials, smart energy, and more.
Latvia is a leader in digital innovation, offering a range of benefits that make it an excellent destination for business. Its fully digitalized business environment is a standout feature, allowing entrepreneurs to launch a business online in just 10 minutes. Widespread e-signatures and fully online tax declarations streamline processes, making operations efficient and hassle-free. Latvia’s tax policies are equally appealing. Recognized as the most startup-friendly country in the world, it ranks second among OECD nations for its competitive tax structure.
Latvians are also renowned for ability to celebrate our heritage. The Song and Dance Festival is the uppermost cultural masterpiece of our people that has stood the test of time and has played a significant role in creating Latvia’s national identity. Nowadays it brings together more than 40,000 participants from across the world. Recognized globally for its cultural importance, the Song and Dance Festival was added to the UNESCO List of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
Restless in Nature, United in Mission
Superior
connectivity
The largest airport in the Baltics with 100+ destinations, close to 7 million pax annually. 3 ice-free ports and 5 Special Economic Zones. The upcoming RailBaltica railway project. Gateway to Northern Europe’s $2 Trillion Market.
1st 5G military
test site in Europe
Significant investments have already been made in infrastructure to support future technological advancements.
3rd in the EU for
share of renewable energy
Eurostat, 2022. Latvia targets to achieve 60% of green energy by 2030.
2nd International Tax
Competitiveness Index
among OECD countries
Tax Foundation, 2023. 0 % Corporate Income Tax on reinvested profit.
3rd for
internet speed
Speedtest Global Index, 2023.
2nd in Europe
for fibre optic coverage
European Commission’s Broadband Coverage Report, 2023.
The most startup-friendly
country in the World
Index Ventures, 2021.
Lithuania
- NATO and EU member state since 2004
- Government: Parliamentary Republic
- Capital: Vilnius
- Currency: Euro
- Population: 2.9 million
- GDP EUR 25,123.9 in 2023
A Northern European country on the Baltic Sea, Lithuania stands as the largest of the three Baltic states. From the first written mention over a millennium ago to joining NATO, the EU, and OECD in this century, Lithuania has survived the trials of history to become a modern, dynamic, and resilient state, as well as one of the fastest growing European economies.
Lithuania also boasts a fascinating blend of multi-layered cultural heritage and pristine nature, including UNESCO-listed sites like the Vilnius Old Town and Curonian Spit, a stunning peninsula of pine forests and giant sand dunes. Equally impressive is the country’s commitment to fostering innovation and a business-friendly environment.
This is evident in Lithuania’s thriving technology sector: with a population of just 2.9 million, the country is home to 3 unicorns, over 800 startups, and the largest number of licensed fintech companies in the EU. Lithuania’s star sectors also include such high-tech fields as biotechnology, cybersecurity, and laser solutions, all supported by skilled talent, top-tier infrastructure, and a forward-thinking regulatory framework. The capital, Vilnius, has become a major center for local and international companies developing far-reaching solutions, from cell and gene treatments to nanosatellites.
Progress across various sectors is mirrored in the World Happiness Report, which reveals an exciting insight: Lithuania’s under-30 population ranks the happiest, with an impressive average score of 7.6 out of 10. While Lithuania holds 19th place overall, its young adults shine as a beacon of happiness in 2024.
Talent-rich
1st globally for the availability of digital and technological skills (IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook, 2023)
85% of young professionals proficient in English (Invest Lithuania, 2023)
Optimized
for growth
1st in the EU for real GDP per capita growth 2000-2023 (Eurostat, 2023)
12th freest economy in the world (Fraser Institute, 2023)
Co-creating impactful solutions, tackling global challenges
Reliably connected
to the world
5G network covers 99% of households (DESI, 2024)
Klaipėda ice-free seaport, the largest in the Baltics, can handle up to 70 million tons of cargo annually (Port of Klaipėda, 2024)
Committed to
green energy
In 2023, 70% of the country’s total energy output was produced from renewable sources (Ministry of Energy, 2024)
By 2030, Lithuania is set to become a green energy exporter (Ministry of Energy, 2024)