Update on preparations for the event "Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026" Expected to generate 32 billion baht in revenue and ready to welcome tourists from around the world
On 25 May 2026, Mr. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, visited the site to monitor progress of the "Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026," scheduled from 1 November 2026 to 14 March 2027 at the Nong Daed Wetland area, Kut Sa Subdistrict, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani Province. He was joined by Mr. Watcharapol Khaokham, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, executives, representatives from government agencies, local authorities, private sector, and community members.
Mr. Suriya revealed that the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 is a major international event for Thailand and the first full-scale horticultural expo held on a wetland. The event’s theme, "Diversity of Life: Connecting People, Water and Plants for Sustainable Living," reflects an approach to agricultural development linking people, water, plants, ecosystems, technology, and the green economy in a balanced way.
As of 15 May 2024, overall construction progress is approximately 77.47%, with many main structures nearing completion, including the welcome building, public relations building, greenhouse, bridges, walkways, utilities, and drainage systems. Landscape architecture, systems installation, and remaining exhibition area preparations are underway to ensure the event opens on schedule and meets international standards.
He emphasized to all involved agencies that although progress exceeds 70%, the remaining time is crucial to complete all work with quality and standards, ensuring beauty, safety, and a positive image of Thailand. Budget management must be transparent, accountable, and maximize benefits for the public and the country.
He also stressed the importance of preparing to accommodate visitors, including transportation, traffic management, public transit, parking, security, emergency medical services, food, accommodation, and connections to key tourist attractions in Udon Thani, requiring integrated cooperation between public and private sectors.
Udon Thani Province is not just the event venue but will showcase the potential of the Northeast as a hub for horticulture, high-value agriculture, ecotourism, and the green economy, ready to welcome visitors from around the world.
Mr. Suriya added that the expo is more than an exhibition; it will be a new "green economy engine" for the Northeast. It is expected to attract about 3.6 million visitors, generate over 32 billion baht in revenue, add more than 20 billion baht in economic value, and create approximately 81,000 jobs. The benefits will spread to the public and tourism sectors, including hotels, restaurants, transportation, community enterprises, farmers, and local businesses.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Agriculture prioritizes post-event development or Expo Legacy, planning to transform the Nong Daed area into a world-class public park, youth activity center, environmental learning center, and a venue for major provincial events. The goals are to open on time, deliver a quality international event, maintain transparent budget oversight, and ensure long-term benefits for the people and Udon Thani Province.
The Ministry will comprehensively monitor progress, including budget use, construction, safety, service systems, publicity plans, and post-event site utilization to ensure the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 becomes a source of pride for Thais and an important platform to showcase horticultural expertise, agricultural innovation, and sustainable economic development to the world.