Tunisia is taking part in the 12th edition of Tourism Expo Japan 2026, which kicked off in Tokyo on September 24, 2026. The event, themed "The Changing Nature of Travel," brings together various tourism stakeholders. Tunisia's ambassador to Japan, Ahmed Chafra, inaugurated the Tunisian pavilion, joined by representatives from the Tunisian National Tourism Office (ONTT) and the National Office of Tunisian Handicrafts (ONAT). Several travel agencies and tourism professionals also attended the opening ceremony.
The Tunisian pavilion at the expo focuses on showcasing the country's UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the village of Sidi Bou Saïd. These sites are expected to pique the interest of Japanese tourists. To cater to this audience, the Tunisian diplomatic mission, in collaboration with the ONTT, has prepared promotional materials in Japanese, highlighting the sites and other aspects of Tunisia's diverse tourism product, such as golf and thalassotherapy.
On the sidelines of the expo, Ambassador Chafra held a working session with Yasushi Karakita, director of the Japan Association of Travel Agencies (JATA). The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the characteristics and specifics of Tunisia as a tourist destination and explore ways to increase the number of Japanese tourists visiting the country. Karakita expressed interest in promoting Tunisian sites, particularly those listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Despite challenges related to high airfare costs and decreased purchasing power among Japanese tourists, Karakita and Chafra agreed to continue coordination and consultation on measures and cooperation programs. These efforts aim to promote Tunisia as a tourist destination and highlight its various sites to Japanese travelers. The two parties discussed potential strategies to overcome existing obstacles and enhance tourism cooperation.
The participation of Tunisia in Tourism Expo Japan 2026 is part of its efforts to strengthen its presence in the Japanese tourism market. By showcasing its rich cultural heritage and diverse tourism offerings, Tunisia aims to attract more Japanese tourists. The country's tourism industry has been working to develop new strategies and partnerships to increase its competitiveness in the global market.
The event provides a platform for Tunisia to engage with Japanese tourism professionals, travel agencies, and potential tourists. By highlighting its unique attractions and experiences, Tunisia hopes to increase its visibility and appeal as a tourist destination. The country's participation in the expo is expected to contribute to the growth of its tourism sector and promote cultural exchange between Tunisia and Japan.
The Tourism Expo Japan 2026 will run until September 27, 2026, offering a chance for Tunisia to connect with a large audience of tourism stakeholders and potential travelers. With its focus on UNESCO World Heritage sites and diverse tourism offerings, Tunisia's participation in the expo is poised to make a positive impact on its tourism industry.
Key points
- Tunisia participates in Tourism Expo Japan 2026 to promote its tourism offerings and attract Japanese tourists.
- The Tunisian pavilion showcases the country's UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the village of Sidi Bou Saïd.
- Tunisia and Japan discuss measures to increase tourism cooperation and promote the country's tourism industry.
