Countdown to Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026

The Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 marks a historic milestone as the first event of its kind to be hosted in the Greater Mekong Subregion. The event is themed:

“Diversity of Life: Connecting Water, Plants, and People for Sustainable Living”

which reflects the intricate relationship between ecosystems, natural resources, and human communities in striving for sustainability.

The expo aligns with the Thai government's policy to position Thailand as a capable host of world-class events—generating employment, promoting income distribution, and enhancing the nation’s international reputation. Moreover, this global horticultural platform is expected to serve as a vital hub for the exchange of agricultural innovations and technical knowledge.

The International Horticultural Expo is an open-air exhibition of horticulture, first held in the Netherlands in 1960. Since then, it has continued to rotate among member countries under the license of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH). Thailand has proudly hosted the event twice: first in 2006 with the Royal Flora Ratchaphruek, a Type A event, and again in 2011 under the same name but classified as Type B. Both events significantly boosted government revenue, created widespread employment, and supported income generation at both provincial and regional levels—especially in Northern Thailand—benefiting tourism-related businesses across the board.

After 14 years, Thailand has once again been selected by the International Association of Horticultural Producers to host the event in 2026. This upcoming expo will be a Type B event held in Udon Thani Province, from 1 November 2026 to 14 March 2027, at Nong Dae Wetland, located in Kut Sa Subdistrict, Mueang District. This marks the first time in history that a horticultural expo will be hosted on a wetland site—highlighting the interdependence between water, nature, and local communities. The event will also showcase Thailand’s rich biodiversity, cultural diversity, and its excellence in sustainable agricultural and horticultural practices.

The year 2026 offers a unique opportunity for Thailand to host a world-class event, aligning with major national celebrations: the 10th anniversary of His Majesty King Rama X’s reign, the 72nd birthday of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, and the 134th anniversary of Udon Thani’s founding. To honor this milestone, the expo will run for 134 days—symbolizing the province’s history.

The Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 is expected to boost Thailand’s GDP, strengthen its image on the global stage, and highlight its role as a leading food producer. It will also serve as a platform for exchanging advanced horticultural technologies, driving progress in society, economy, and the environment—supporting the AIPH’s mission to uplift global horticulture and promote sustainable living for future generations.

A defining feature of Udon Thani as the host city is its unique status as a wetland region, locally known as “Pa Bung Pa Tam”. With over 900 wetland sites covering more than 2,000 square kilometers, the province sits at the intersection of land and water, home to a rich and complex ecosystem. Hosting a global event in such an environment poses exciting challenges—no one has ever done it before—which is expected to spark new academic insights and innovative economic models.

Udon Thani has also declared its ambition to become a sustainable city, aiming to evolve into a hub for trade, investment, tourism, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) in the Greater Mekong Subregion.

The Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 will be held under the theme:

“Diversity of Life: Connecting Water, Plants, and People for Sustainable Living”,

spanning a total of 1,030 rai (~165 hectares), divided into six main zones:

Arrival & Information Zone – entry, ticketing, and welcome area

1. International Garden Zone
2. Greenhouse & Exhibition Building Zone
3. Agricultural Innovation Zone
4. Theme Garden & Thai Agriculture Showcase
5. Sustainable Forest Station & Nursery Zone

The expo site is designed to reflect the cultural and environmental identity of Northeast Thailand (Isan), where greenery and water exist in harmony. Its architecture uses local materials and structural engineering techniques that emphasize sustainability and environmental sensitivity. Key highlights include:

The Arrival Building and Sky Walk, symbolizing the flow of nature and water, linked to the Visitor Center for guest convenience.

The Royal Pavilion, inspired by Wat Pa Phu Kon, showcases the spiritual essence of local Buddhism and serves as a cultural landmark.

The Greenhouse and Exhibition Hall, reinterpreting the traditional twin-house design (“Heuan Paed”), includes a central courtyard to reflect modern Isan spatial use.

The Isan Village, a cluster of traditional-style houses such as Heuan Koey, Heuan Khong, and Heuan Fai, will host cultural performances, serve local food and beverages, and provide visitor services.

This groundbreaking expo will serve as a platform to demonstrate harmony in diversity and reinforce progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is the first time a horticultural expo will be held both in the Greater Mekong Subregion and on a wetland site, setting a global precedent for sustainability-focused design and cultural integration.

Mrs. Wilawan Khraikruan, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Agriculture, welcomed participants and shared the event’s objectives, stating:

“The International Horticultural Expo is the world’s largest platform for showcasing horticultural technology. Thailand has hosted this event twice before in Chiang Mai. The 2026 edition in Udon Thani is a collaborative effort involving the Department of Agriculture, Udon Thani Province, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), and both public and private sector partners. Its goals are to demonstrate Thailand’s horticultural development potential, promote national and international academic exchange, and advance agricultural innovation and biodiversity research. The aim is to establish Udon Thani as a hub for agricultural innovation—driving income, quality of life, and long-term growth toward a bio-circular-green (BCG) economy.”

The expo supports Thailand’s long-term vision of a prosperous, secure, and sustainable future, spotlighting the nation’s horticultural expertise on a global stage. More than 50 domestic organizations have confirmed participation, alongside 8 international participants from the 20 countries invited so far.

Activities will include:

1. Academic conferences on horticulture
2. Competitive plant exhibitions
3. Thai cultural performances, especially from the Isan region
4. Educational sessions on carbon credits and sustainability initiatives

Representing Thailand as a member of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), the Department of Agriculture affirms that preparations are progressing steadily—including master planning, management, publicity, and key operational details to ensure a successful event.

Mrs. Wilawan emphasized that the expo will help expand green spaces, introduce new horticultural technologies, and support their adaptation across Upper Northeastern Thailand.

Ms. Anongnat Jakaew, Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, delivered remarks on behalf of the keynote speaker during the press conference held at Kimpton Maa-Lai Bangkok on February 25, 2025. She stated:

“The Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 is a major global event that aligns with the Thai government’s strategic vision to position the country as a leading host of international exhibitions. The expo will drive agricultural knowledge exchange and expand global markets for Thai agricultural products.

To support this, the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives is committed to advancing a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability under the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economy Model. The Department of Agriculture, Udon Thani Province, and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) have been tasked with organizing the expo, with a focus on creating green cities, promoting climate resilience, and finding harmony between water, nature, and daily life.

I believe this event will serve as a world-class platform for showcasing Thailand’s horticultural capabilities and academic excellence. It will also lay the foundation for a new economic zone in Udon Thani, transforming it into a center for agricultural innovation, trade, and investment.”

The Ministry expects over 3 million visitors and a projected economic impact of more than 32 billion baht, driven by tourism, public and private sector spending, and heightened activity throughout the 134-day event period.

Mr. Rachan Sunhua, Governor of Udon Thani, affirmed the province’s full commitment to the event:

“We delivered the 1,030-rai site to the Department of Agriculture two months ahead of schedule. The people of Udon Thani have high hopes for this expo, and I assure everyone that we are fully prepared—from today through to the opening day on November 1, 2026, and until the event concludes on March 14, 2027.”

Comprehensive preparation is already underway. Committees have been established for transportation, site development, guest services, accommodations, and local hospitality. Tour guides are being trained, souvenirs are being curated, and the Provincial Cultural Office is preparing cultural showcases for the anticipated millions of visitors. The Community Development Office is also coordinating with local enterprises to highlight community-based products and services.

Udon Thani currently offers over 9,410 accommodation units, ranging from homestays to facilities capable of hosting VIPs. During the AIPH inspection visit on January 24–25, officials demonstrated readiness at every level—including the international airport and green transit options such as electric shuttles from the train station to the expo site at Nong Dae.

“We’ve already filled the land and planted trees. The site is ready for immediate construction,” said Mr. Rachan.

He also shared that local volunteers have helped plant lotuses, a symbol of this year’s expo, in Nong Dae pond as part of a community-led kickoff initiative.

“Udon Thani is ready. We’re committed to making this event a success—on behalf of our people, our province, and our future. We are ready to host, serve, and welcome the world.”

Ms. Nichapha Yoswi, Senior Deputy Director of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), highlighted the significance of the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 in advancing Thailand’s position on the global stage:

“Our core mission is to generate positive economic impact through the MICE industry—Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions, and Festivals. At TCEB, we see ourselves as a national marketing arm, promoting Thailand’s brand in industries prioritized by the government.”

She emphasized that agriculture has been a strategic focus in recent years, and that Thailand holds vast potential in the global agricultural landscape. Hosting an international horticultural expo will attract investors and experts in agricultural science, accelerating the sector’s advancement. Thailand’s previous success as host of Royal Flora Ratchaphruek, which earned the world’s first AIPH Gold Award, further affirms the country’s capability to organize events of this scale.

The decision to host the expo in Udon Thani stemmed from its status as one of TCEB’s 10 designated MICE Cities across four regions. After evaluating the site against AIPH regulations, Udon Thani stood out for its wetland ecosystem—a global first for a horticultural expo. The concept “Diversity of Life” was then co-developed with the province and submitted for Cabinet approval, which was granted. Close collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives soon followed, leading to the full realization of the Udon Thani expo project.

“We believe this large-scale horticultural festival will bring enormous benefits to Thailand. Over 3.7 million visitors are expected, generating more than 32 billion baht in revenue, 18 billion baht in tax contributions, and creating over 81,000 jobs. Beyond the 134-day event’s economic legacy, the expo will leave a profound social impact—facilitating international collaboration, knowledge exchange, joint research, conservation of rare plants, and the development of new plant species to enter global markets.”

Preparations for the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 are now well underway. The Department of Agriculture has made strong progress in developing core content, while Udon Thani Province continues its work with full commitment as the host location. Meanwhile, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB)—which initially proposed the idea and led the successful bid to host the event—is actively coordinating with the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) to ensure confidence in Thailand’s readiness and in Udon Thani’s ability to deliver a world-class experience.

“Chiang Mai once won the AIPH Gold Award—why not Udon Thani?”

TCEB is determined to bring its expertise to the table to help Thailand make its mark in AIPH history once again.

The challenge now is no longer whether Thailand can host the event successfully, but how to maximize its long-term impact—beyond meeting international standards. This will require close collaboration between all sectors: public, private, and civil society. While the event takes place in Udon Thani, the visitor experience begins the moment guests arrive in Thailand. Every touchpoint—welcome, hospitality, and coordination—must reflect the nation’s readiness and graciousness as host. Thailand has consistently proven its capability to do this beautifully—and this event will once again showcase that strength on the global stage.

All main stakeholders have confirmed that the expo will proceed at full scale—contrary to earlier rumors of downsizing. With the countdown now ticking toward November 1, 2026, all eyes will soon turn to Udon Thani. As the world’s next major horticultural destination, Thailand stands ready to welcome millions with open arms.

In addition to the main organizers’ announcements, the press conference also featured cultural and creative highlights that reflect the spirit of the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026.

Famed singer Mike Piromporn, a native of Kumphawapi District in Udon Thani, performed the official theme song “Puech Suan Lok Udon Thani” (Udon Thani Horticultural World). With its lively rhythm and inviting lyrics, the song encourages both Thai and international audiences to attend the expo. It will serve as a key promotional tool leading up to the event.

On the same stage, graphic artist Jakkrit Anantakul discussed his design inspirations for the expo’s visual identity. He incorporated the vibrant red of the region’s iconic lotus flowers and patterns from Ban Chiang pottery, layering local imagery to represent the event’s core themes—diversity, people, water, and plants.

Also featured was Jirapan Tokkiri, founder of the lifestyle and home décor brand TOUCHABLE and recipient of the Designer of the Year 2004 award. She was invited to design the official souvenir collection for the event, transforming traditional handwoven mats into stylish, collectible fashion handbags—merging craftsmanship with contemporary elegance.

As the countdown to the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 continues, a variety of lead-up activities are expected to keep the public engaged and excited. One such initiative, announced during the press conference, is a mascot design competition—open to professionals, students, and hobbyists alike, whether as individuals or teams.

The competition offers a total prize pool of 50,000 baht, with entries accepted from now until April 1, 2025.

For full contest details, visit:

👉 https://contest-thailand.com/udon-thani-international-horticultural-expo-2026/

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