Pakistan’s pink salt pavilion draws global attention at Osaka Expo 2025

KARACHI: Pakistan has unveiled a striking pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, drawing global attention with a design inspired by its distinctive pink rock salt and a message centred on sustainability, nature and international partnership.

Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday at the Expo site in Osaka, Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan described the pavilion as “a message of balance and renewal”, built around the theme ‘Universe in a Grain of Salt’. The concept is anchored in Pakistan’s iconic pink rock salt -- found exclusively in the country’s Salt Range -- and has become one of the most visited national displays at the event.

“Salt, in its purity and strength, represents our timeless connection to the earth,” Khan told the media. “Through it, we are sharing a vision of sustainability and nature-centric progress with the world.”

The minister said Pakistan’s presence at Expo 2025 was not just symbolic, but strategic, and intended to signal its aspirations for greater international collaboration in trade, investment and cultural exchange. “Pakistan cannot remain absent from global platforms like this,” he said. “This is where the world comes together to exchange ideas and address shared challenges.”

Designed with low-carbon materials and operated on full energy conservation, the Pakistan Pavilion aligns with Expo 2025’s overarching theme: ‘Designing Future Societies for Our Lives’. Its architectural references to salt crystals and natural textures are meant to evoke reflection on wellness, sustainability and Pakistan’s artisanal traditions.

Beyond the design, the pavilion will serve as a venue for a range of events over the coming months, including a Pakistan Food Festival, cultural performances, trade forums and National Day celebrations on August 14.

Khan also used the platform to highlight Pakistan’s economic strengths, encouraging Japanese and international investors to explore opportunities in sectors such as textiles, food and agriculture, minerals, digital services and clean energy.“We are at a turning point,” he said. “Pakistan is ready to engage more deeply with the region and the world, and Japan is a key part of that vision.”