The Prime Minister stood firm against strong winds to open the 2026 World Horticultural Expo in Udon Thani. He said he was not afraid of strong winds or rain but feared lightning because he had sworn many oaths. He emphasized Thai agricultural potential, connecting economic opportunities to the global stage, and advancing the Northeast as a center for agriculture and tourism.
At 18:30 on 2 Nov 2026, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who is also Minister of Interior, presided over the opening of the 2026 Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo, held from 1 Nov 2026 to 14 Mar 2027 at the Nong Da Wetlands area, Kut Sa Subdistrict, Mueang District, Udon Thani Province, lasting 134 days. The event was attended by diplomats, the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, and representatives from the International Association of Horticultural Producers.
The Prime Minister said he would begin by welcoming all visitors on behalf of the hosts. Thailand has been honored to host the 2026 Udon Thani World Horticultural Expo, an international event certified by the International Association of Horticultural Producers, lasting 134 days. This is a significant opportunity to welcome friends from around the world and showcase Thailand's capabilities in horticulture, agriculture, and biodiversity.
He added that the World Horticultural Expo demonstrates how plants, water, and people are interconnected—from plant species conservation and wetland preservation to coping with climate change and applying technology and innovation to improve farmers' productivity, quality, and value. These efforts align with Thailand's BCG economic development model emphasizing biotechnology and the environment. The expo serves as a platform for farmers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and international sectors to exchange knowledge and build partnerships that can expand markets and business opportunities.
The Prime Minister further stated that the government hopes the expo will benefit everyone, including farmers, small businesses, hotels, restaurants, and service providers, while elevating the Northeastern provinces as centers of agricultural production, food, and unique tourism.
However, the event will not end with its closing. The government plans to develop the site into a lasting resource: a horticultural learning center, a venue for product displays and agricultural innovations capable of hosting international events, while preserving wetlands and natural resources. This investment and cooperation aim to create long-term value for local communities.
On behalf of the Thai government, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to all sectors—government agencies, private sector, educational institutions, farmers, communities, and the people of Udon Thani and related provinces—for their united efforts in making the expo a success and exemplary host event, benefiting people nationwide. He especially commended the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives and Udon Thani Province for their thorough preparations. He also announced plans to hold another World Horticultural Expo soon in Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, confident it will greatly benefit Thai people, especially those in agriculture.
Reporters noted that the opening ceremony took place under overcast skies with heavy rain clouds before the event started, accompanied by strong winds throughout the speeches. The Prime Minister joked during his opening remarks that he was not afraid of rain but feared lightning because he had sworn many oaths, which made attendees laugh.
The Prime Minister concluded by stating that on 3 Nov 2026, a cabinet meeting would be held in Udon Thani where agriculture would be declared a national agenda to support all Thai people and farmers, who are the backbone of the country.
According to reporters, the original program included spectacular cultural performances with lights and sound, plus a drone show depicting the Ban Chiang pottery—Udon Thani's UNESCO World Heritage—and the logo of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH). However, due to rain and strong winds during the opening, some activities were cancelled.
