Update on the preparations for the World Horticultural Expo in Udon Thani Province from 1 Nov 2026 to 14 Mar 2027: development and construction of the event site are over 71% complete, with an expected economic impact exceeding 32 billion baht.
On 11 May, reporters reported that the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), a public organization, together with the Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives,,and Udon Thani Province held a press conference to integrate cooperation in tourism and services to support the World Horticultural Expo in Udon Thani 2026. This aimed to unify collaboration between the public and private sectors in the MICE industry, while showcasing the readiness and capabilities ofUdon Thani Provincein all dimensions, along with the preparedness of partner networks, which will elevate Thailand’s competitiveness on the global stage.
At the same time, the press conference featured the launch of private sector partners including airlines, hotels, and travel companies,platformsin tourism and service businesses, as well as panel discussions with partners such as the Thai Ecotourism and Adventure Travel Association, the Domestic Travel Business Association, the Thailand Incentive and Convention Association (TICA), and the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA). Together, they presented comprehensive travel and service packages to facilitate visitors throughout the event, while stimulating spending and distributing income to local communities.
Furthermore, an integrated package set named "Udon Thani World Horticultural Expo: Gateway to a New World" was launched, resulting from collaboration with tourism and MICE industry partners nationwide. It covers all segments, from nature travelers and families to MICE business groups and international business travelers, aiming to generate economic outcomes and create a lasting legacy of sustainability for the Northeastern region. Examples include the Green Wonder Journey by TEATA, Udon Plus Circle by the Domestic Travel Business Association, Meet the World at Udon by TICA, and Easy Ride to the Expo by the Transport Company Limited (Bor Kor Sor).,(Bor Kor Sor).
This collaboration marks a significant step in advancing the World Horticultural Expo in Udon Thani 2026, scheduled from 1 Nov 2026 to 14 Mar 2027, lasting 134 days. It aims to be an international platform that creates economic opportunities, elevates Thailand’s MICE industry, and enhances the country’s image worldwide, with an expected economic impact exceeding 32 billion baht.
Ms. Supawan Tilarat, Director of the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, said TCEBasthe key agency driving the country’s MICE industry has played a vital role from the start in securing Thailand’s hosting rights for the World Horticultural Expo in Udon Thani 2026. This includes managing the bidding process, coordinating with international organizations, supporting inspections, and continuously monitoring readiness. TCEB uses global festivals as strategic tools to drive the economy and elevate regions, emphasizing integrated cooperation among the public sector, private enterprises, MICE operators, and communities to develop a comprehensive ecosystem for the event. It also connects diverse industry partners—airlines, hotels, travel companies, tourism platforms, and local operators—to jointly design and develop integrated packages linking travel, tourism, and MICE activities seamlessly. These packages cover all target groups, including general tourists, business groups, and international MICE travelers, aiming to enhance experiences and stimulate domestic spending. TCEB also focuses on creating business dialogues within the event by connecting buyersto createbusiness opportunities.
This effort is not only focused on the short-term success of the event but also on creating a legacy for the area, including infrastructure development, capacity building, upgrading operators, and enhancing Thailand’s imageasthe World’s Leading MICE Destination. TCEB believes that with the collaborative power of all partners, this World Horticultural Expo will serve as a model for using mega events to drive economic growth, create new opportunities for the region, and sustainably elevate Thailand on the global stage.
Mr. Rachan Soonhua, Governor of Udon Thani, stated that as the host, Udon Thanihas plannedsystematic development and preparation to support the World Horticultural Expo in every aspect, including infrastructure, transportation systems, managing access to the event site, accommodation, and public services that are sufficient and meet international standards. This is alongside capacity building for local personnel and public participation to ensure readiness as a good host city, impressing participants from around the world and reflecting Udon Thani’s identity as a regional center ready to step onto the international stage.
Mr. Rapeepat Chantrasriwong, Director-General of the Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture, said the Department of Agricultureasthe main agency responsible for organizing the event has continuously prepared, with over 71% progress in developing and constructing the event site. The landscaping and garden displays are designed to reflect Thailand’s identity and biodiversity. There is also international cooperation in creating International Gardens alongside the development of Corporate Gardens and specialized exhibitions meeting international standards under the AIPH framework, elevating the quality of the event to a global level and providing diverse experiences for visitors of all target groups.