Former Takenaka manager arrested for breach of trust over Osaka Expo project
Tatsumi Kawai, 61, is suspected of conspiring with a subcontractor to have it repeatedly overcharge in 2025, resulting in ¥13.69 million in damages.
Former Takenaka manager Tatsumi Kawai, 61, was arrested by Osaka police on Wednesday in connection with a suspected breach of trust involving the Grand Ring project for last year's Osaka World Expo. Kawai is accused of conspiring with a subcontractor to repeatedly overcharge for interior work on a temporary office from February to June 2025, resulting in ¥13.69 million ($86,000) in damages to Takenaka, an Osaka-based general contractor.
The suspect oversaw the Grand Ring project and had the authority to select subcontractors. The overcharged funds allegedly funded a home remodel and other expenses. Police have not confirmed Kawai's admission of guilt. Police conducted a raid at Takenaka's headquarters as part of the investigation. Takenaka stated they will cooperate fully with the police and take strict measures after confirming the facts.
The Grand Ring, a symbol of the Expo, was built at a total cost of ¥34.4 billion and recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's largest wooden structure.
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