Dynamic ambitions in a compact nation: The creative economic ascent of Moldova in the global marketplace.

Moldova is set to make a significant mark on the international stage with its participation at Expo 2025 Osaka. The small Eastern European country is showcasing its thriving creative sector, a key driver in its economic development and international image.

Several influential figures and entities, including Sho Sato and Crunchyroll, have played a crucial role in shaping Moldova's engagement in digital storytelling. Seven Moldovan companies, members of the Creative Industries Association COR, will showcase their talent and innovation at the event.

These companies, part of Moldova's growing ecosystem of over 2,700 companies in the creative services sector, include Atelier Studios, Infotech, Creative Lab, Digital Heights, ArtVision, MediaCraft, and PixelWave. Their outstanding projects range from innovative software development, digital marketing campaigns, multimedia design, to cultural event organization.

One of the pioneers in immersive multimedia and Unreal Engine-powered installations is NRG Media. Known for their work with international DJ Andrew Rayel and Moldova's first digital sculpture project for Orange, they are a testament to the country's growing digital arts scene.

Profile Communications, a full-service creative and communication agency, has delivered over 600 campaigns for major local and international brands. bully! entertainment, a global player in immersive content (VR/AR, WebAR), boasts a portfolio including Microsoft, Ford, NASA, Avatar, and PwC.

Racketa Production, an innovator in immersive storytelling and AR experiences, has created an award-winning mobile app for Moldova's National Museum and is developing original film content. Mihai Stamati Design Studio, an award-winning industrial designer, has works featured at prestigious design weeks in Stockholm, Vienna, and Saint-Etienne. Casa Imago, a design and branding studio, is trusted by Crunchyroll for localising creative campaigns across markets.

The creative sector in Moldova is closely interwoven with its ICT industry, which benefits from supportive government policies. The flat tax offered to resident IT companies in Moldova IT Park has helped build a digital economy that's increasingly attracting creative start-ups.

Moldova's creative professionals have found traction in the global market through platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Behance. Discussions are underway to extend similar incentives to creative industries in Moldova. Moldovan universities have begun adapting their curricula to respond to the growing demand for creative skills.

International collaboration, particularly with Japanese creative institutions and professionals, is fueling the growth of Moldova's creative sector. Natalia Bejan, Director of Invest Moldova Agency, stated that the event aims to build real partnerships that move the creative industry forward.

On July 19, at Expo 2025 Osaka, representatives of Invest Moldova Agency and the Creative Association of Moldova will host a workshop showcasing the country's creative potential. The special segment, "Moldova Meets Japan: A Journey through Anime and Gaming," will highlight Moldova's digital arts scene.

Lidia Scarlat, a creative producer and international connector, curates custom teams for global studios and brands, with credits including Netflix, OFFF, and Microsoft. Her work underscores the potential for Moldovan talent to contribute to the global creative landscape.

The event will showcase how local talent is blending global influences with original content in gaming and animation. Moldova's participation at Expo Osaka 2025 is an important step in establishing its creative industry on the international stage.

Dynamic ambitions in a compact nation: The creative economic ascent of Moldova in the global marketplace.