As the opening of the highly anticipated Osaka Expo approaches in just 40 days, alarming news has surfaced regarding ticket sales, which are falling significantly short of expectations. Current reports indicate that the event has a staggering deficit of 6 million tickets, raising concerns about the financial viability of the expo.

In a recent discussion between journalist Kazuhito Imai and former Hakuhodo writer Ryu Honma, the duo highlighted the gravity of the situation. The Expo, initially projected to sell 14 million advance tickets, has only managed to sell around 8 million thus far. This stark shortfall means that the organizers need to sell approximately 130,000 tickets per day in the final month leading up to the event to avoid a projected deficit.

Despite recent efforts, including a promotional campaign that saw a record weekly sale of 83,000 tickets, it is clear that the goal remains daunting. The Expo organizers had previously set an ambitious target of selling 2.3 million tickets to offset deficits, but the current sales trajectory suggests that this may not be achievable.

Critics have voiced frustration over the Expo management’s handling of the ticketing situation, with Imai and Honma expressing skepticism about the credibility of the claims made by the Expo’s executive director regarding ticket sales exceeding those of previous expos. As public interest wanes, the organizers face mounting pressure to improve their strategies.

Additionally, reports have surfaced that indicate pressure on local government employees to promote ticket sales through social media, further underscoring the urgency of the situation. With time running out, stakeholders are left wondering whether the Expo can turn the tide and deliver on its promises, or if it will fall short, casting a shadow over one of Japan’s most significant events in recent history.