On May 18, 2026, around 120 representatives from the fields of business, politics and science gathered at Vienna AirportCity to deepen bilateral relations between Austria and Japan.
The third “Cherry Blossom Business Event” utilized the infrastructure of Vienna Airport to serve as a platform for exchanging information on current market conditions and technological collaborations. Keynote speakers included the Japanese Ambassador, Kiminori Iwama, and the Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Energy and Tourism, Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer. Discussions focused on intensifying trade relations and Japan's strategic importance as one of Austria's most important trading partners in Asia.
The panel discussions in the morning focused in particular on the challenges of global supply chains and the opportunities of joint innovation projects. In addition to representatives from the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), executives from internationally operating companies such as Nissin Corporation and the technology company ScarletRed also participated. Airport CEO Günther Ofner emphasized the role of AirportCity as a multinational business location. With over 250 resident companies and more than 23.000 employees, the area has developed into an independent economic center that extends beyond the airport's mere transport function and serves as an interface for international investments.
The business portion of the event was accompanied by an extensive cultural program, ranging from traditional tea ceremonies to workshops in calligraphy and manga illustration. This cultural component serves to foster mutual understanding, which is considered the foundation for long-term business relationships. The event took place at the Conference & Innovation Center, which, with over 2.600 square meters of event space and the exclusive "Level 22" location in the airport tower, specializes in hosting high-profile business events. Thanks to its connections to the rail and road networks, as well as its integrated educational and healthcare facilities, the complex offers a self-contained infrastructure for international congresses.
Additional economic data underscores the relevance of such meetings: Japan is Austria's second most important trading partner in Asia, with exports steadily increasing in recent years. Particularly close ties exist in the mechanical engineering, pharmaceutical, and high-quality food sectors. Furthermore, with approximately 40 million potential advertising contacts per year at its location, Vienna Airport offers an attractive platform for Japanese brands seeking to increase their visibility in the European market. The Cherry Blossom Business Event has thus established itself as a key event for promoting the economic integration of both nations and unlocking new opportunities for cooperation.