The Ministry of Agriculture announced 100% readiness to transform Nong Daet for the “Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026” at the world’s first wetland site, running from 1 Nov 2026 to 14 Mar 2027. Accommodation and flight tickets have been nearly fully booked in advance.
Mr. Watcharapol Khaokham, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, chaired the press conference for the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026. Mr. Rapeepat Jansriwong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, along with government executives, private sector representatives, the Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Industries, and tourism business associations attended to announce full readiness for this global event in the Northeastern region.
Mr. Watcharapol revealed that the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has fully integrated efforts with Udon Thani Province and partners from all sectors to prepare for the 2026 Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo. The infrastructure and construction within the area are 100% complete, with only minor finishing touches and exhibition booth arrangements remaining.
The key highlight is hosting the event on the nearly 2,000-rai Nong Daet wetland, where water covers 60–70% of the area. Under the concept “Diversity of Life,” it reflects the wisdom and lifestyle of Northeastern people long connected to waterways. The expo features global-level activities including plant species contests, agricultural innovation exhibitions, public and private organization gardens, and more than 32 international gardens from 17 countries. Additionally, a special collaboration between the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Fisheries will transform the water area into a major tourist attraction and a learning center for fisheries and aquatic plant innovations.
It is projected that over the 134-day event, daily attendance will average 20,000–30,000 visitors. Currently, bookings for flights, hotels, accommodations, and restaurants in Udon Thani and seven nearby provinces—Nong Khai, Nong Bua Lamphu, Khon Kaen, Bueng Kan, and Nakhon Phanom—are nearly fully reserved. The event is expected to generate significant economic value and international prestige for Thailand.
Mr. Rapeepat Jansriwong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, emphasized the importance of this event, noting it as a national agenda and a historic milestone since it is the world’s first international horticultural expo held on a wetland. The ministry prioritizes income distribution to local communities by using agricultural materials, plants, and cultural performances from Udon Thani, while also providing opportunities for farmers and community enterprises to reserve booths to sell local products.
Furthermore, a long-term Legacy Plan is in place for after the event, with all the area planned to be transferred to the Udon Thani Provincial Administrative Organization for development into a large public park and a sustainable agriculture learning center for farmers, youth, and the public. A budget will be proposed to the Cabinet for maintenance to ensure ongoing beneficial use of the area.
On this occasion, the public and tourists worldwide are invited to experience the grandeur of the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 at the Nong Daet wetland area, Mueang District, Udon Thani Province, from 1 November 2026 to 14 March 2027.
