A delegation of First Nations Victorians recently showcased their strengths and talents on the international stage at the World Expo 2025.

Held every five years since 1851, the Expo is one of the oldest and largest events on the international calendar, acting as a global platform for achievement, innovation, collaboration, and cooperation.

The Victorian delegates travelled to the Japanese city of Osaka last month to attend the Expo, bringing their knowledge and products to an international audience.

Ten representatives from six Aboriginal businesses and Traditional Owner corporations active in the agriculture, food and tourism sectors attended.

They included agri-food businesses Bidja Wines, Blak Brews, and Jala Jala Treats, as well as Gunditj Mirring Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation's Budji Bim Cultural Landscape Tours, Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Aboriginal Corporation's Wadawurrung Enterprises, and Barengi Gadjin Land Council Aboriginal Corporation's Dalki Garringa.

Attendees visited the six-month long Expo during Te Aratini Indigenous Peoples Week, which showcases Indigenous cultures, perspectives and contributions to international relationships.

Delegates said they found the program valuable and successful.

"The program was one of the best we have been involved with as we gained deep market insight and key connections to take our next steps in exporting our wines to Japan," a delegate spokesperson said.

Expo highlights included a showcase of Indigenous products and services. Delegates participated in panel discussions, networking opportunities and cultural exchange, with three organisations attending a masterclass with distributors from Japan and Korea.

"I strongly believe the program was highly valuable in showcasing Victorian First Nations businesses globally," a delegate spokesperson said.

"Continued investment in similar initiatives will amplify cultural and economic benefits for communities and industry."

The delegation also hosted the Victorian Entrepreneurship Panel in the Expo's Australian Pavilion, where Blak Brews, Budji Bim Cultural Landscape Tours and Wadawurrung Enterprises were panellists.

"The immersion program was a huge success," one delegate said.

"We are excited by the opportunities that are ahead for us. I think it opened our eyes to just how big the opportunity can be, and that it is achievable."

The delegates' participation in the Expo helped boost Australia's global profile ahead of the World Indigenous Business Forum, set to be held in Melbourne next month.

The delegation was supported through the Victorian Government's Yuma Yirramboi Strategy, which supports a self-determined approach to meeting Aboriginal Victorians' economic goals.