Agriculture Dept Explains Udon Thani Expo Contracts, 250M Budget Boost Approved
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On October 30, 2026, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Agriculture Sasiya Pantan clarified the facts regarding Media I Am Co., Ltd., which received two contracts from the Department for public relations work related to the Udon Thani World Horticultural Expo.
The first project in 2024 aimed to promote and create awareness domestically and internationally with a budget of 48.3 million baht, using the e-bidding method. Subsequently, a second project was contracted for the management, public relations, and organization of activities for the 2026 Udon Thani World Horticultural Expo with a budget of 290 million baht, using a selection method. This project covers not only public relations but also international garden arrangements, exhibitions, and overall event management to ensure the expo opens on schedule as required by the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), which granted Thailand the right to host the World Horticultural Expo.
In June 2026, the AIPH committee conducted a site visit to monitor progress. During this visit, the committee determined that the project did not yet meet AIPH standards and recommended a budget increase. The World Horticultural Expo Executive Committee subsequently approved a 10% budget increase, or 250 million baht, of the total 2,500 million baht budget, to enhance efficiency in international garden development, security, utilities, traffic management, and overall site administration — all in line with AIPH proposals and standards.
Sasiya stated that the Department of Agriculture then prepared detailed budget documentation for Cabinet consideration. After review incorporating opinions from the National Economic and Social Development Council, the Comptroller General's Department, the Ministry of Finance, and the Budget Bureau, the Cabinet approved an additional 10% budget allocation of 250 million baht. Clear comparative data on each budget item was provided, and at every procurement step, observers from the Comptroller General's Department and the National Anti-Corruption Commission monitored and advised to ensure the large-scale procurement proceeded correctly. She urged the public to be confident that every step strictly follows government regulations from start to finish.
