Austria brings the spirit of culture, sport, and innovation to Expo 2027 Belgrade
The Republic of Austria, a country of stunning natural beauty in the heart of Europe, with a rich cultural and sporting tradition, has officially confirmed its participation in Expo 2027 Belgrade and is one of the 120 countries that will present their interpretation of the theme “Play for Humanity: Sport and Music for All” from May 15 to August 15, 2027.
In 2024, Serbia and Austria marked 150 years of official bilateral diplomatic relations, and the two countries maintain an intensive and continuous political dialogue. Officials regularly exchange visits and meet at various international gatherings, and Expo 2027 offers yet another opportunity for Serbia and Austria to strengthen their ties.
“We were delighted to receive the news that the country of Mozart and Falco, Klimt and Wurm, Lauda and Maier will participate in the world’s largest showcase of human creativity and innovation in 2027 in Belgrade. Austria will bring to the Serbian capital a distinctive spirit of European culture, and we believe that its pavilion at Expo 2027 will offer a remarkable program,” said Danilo Jerinić, CEO of Expo 2027 Belgrade.
Austria has a long and proud tradition of participating in international exhibitions, dating back to the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London. Vienna itself hosted the World Expo in 1873, and Austria was a founding member of the Bureau International des Expositions (BIE) in 1928.
The deep bilateral relations between Austria and Serbia are not only reflected in the fact that more than 120,000 Serbian citizens live in Austria, but also through mutual appreciation as trusted trading partners. With a total volume of traded goods of almost € 2 billion in 2024, Serbia proves to be Austria’s most important trading partner among the countries of the Western Balkans. Furthermore, Austrian companies in Serbia employ more than 24.000 people.
Austria stands out as a leading hub for business investment, offering access to a prosperous EU market of approximately 450 million consumers, and perfectly positioned at the heart of Europe as a bridge between West and East. Its workforce is both highly qualified and motivated, supported by an efficient and stable infrastructure, as well as a business-friendly economic climate. Austria’s research landscape is dynamic and inventive, boosted by a generous 14% Research and Development (R&D) tax credit, extensive direct funding schemes, as well as the government's ambitious investment into R&D at 3,35% of GDP. Moreover, the country offers an exceptional quality of life, with affordable living costs, outstanding public transport, and a reputation as one of the most livable nations globally, demonstrating a particular dedication to the environment.
Austria is a land of diversity, where every region contributes to the national identity: the towering peaks of Tyrol and Vorarlberg, the sparkling lakes of Carinthia and Upper Austria, the wine landscapes of Styria and Burgenland, and the historic beauty of Salzburg and Graz. Vienna, with its imperial heritage and cosmopolitan flair, stands alongside Lower Austria’s monasteries and castles, as well as the modern industrial strength of regions like Upper Austria and Carinthia. Its architectural heritage ranges from imperial residences such as Schönbrunn, the Hofburg, and the Belvedere in Vienna to monasteries like Melk Abbey and medieval towns like Salzburg and Graz. Austria has inspired renowned composers, artists, scientists, and philosophers whose influence continues to shape Europe and the world.
Austria’s cultural life is exceptionally diverse: from the world-famous Salzburg Festival to the spectacular Bregenz Festival on Lake Constance, from Grafenegg’s open-air concerts to Vienna’s Burgtheater and Musikverein. Beyond classical traditions, the country also celebrates contemporary creativity, with vibrant design, film, and art scenes that highlight Austria as a place where heritage meets innovation.
Austria is also a country of various delicacies and sporting spirit. Culinary symbols such as Sachertorte, apple strudel, and Wiener schnitzel are enjoyed worldwide, while its alpine landscapes make it a paradise for winter sports. Skiing, snowboarding, and ski jumping are part of the country’s identity, and the famous Four Hills Tournament, with stages in Innsbruck and Bischofshofen, attracts global attention each winter.
Football has a firm place in Austrian life as well. The country co-hosted UEFA Euro 2008 with Switzerland, and top clubs such as Rapid Vienna, Austria Vienna, Sturm Graz, and Red Bull Salzburg gather passionate fan bases. Austrian footballers like David Alaba, Aleksandar Dragović, and Marko Arnautović, who recently became a top player of Red Star Belgrade, are international stars who carry the nation’s sporting spirit far beyond its borders.
Expo 2027 Belgrade will be the first International Exhibition ever held in the Western Balkans, and over its 93-day duration, it is expected to attract more than four million visitors. Participation is anticipated from over 120 countries, international organizations, and companies worldwide.