Singapore has started work on its pavilion for the 2025 World Exposition in Osaka, becoming the first nation to do so among those planning to construct their pavilions by themselves.

Workers measured the site on Wednesday where Singapore's facility will be set up. About 60 countries out of 160 participants have chosen to build their own pavilions, but delays have plagued preparations, partly due to soaring material costs.

Osaka City officials say Ireland has completed all of the procedures required to begin construction, and 11 other nations have obtained construction permits from the city.

But as of Tuesday, nearly half of those planning to build their own pavilions had not yet decided on construction firms.