Government Backs Udon Thani World Horticulture Expo, Targets 3.6M Visitors
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The government has confirmed the Udon Thani World Horticultural Expo (Udon Thani Expo 2026) as a landmark international event scheduled from November 1, 2026 to March 14, 2027. Deputy Government Spokesperson Patdarasorn Thongsaluang revealed the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives is spearheading the expo, which aims to attract over 3.6 million visitors, generate more than 200 billion baht in economic value, create over 81,000 jobs, and yield over 7.7 billion baht in tax revenue. Local hotels, restaurants, transport operators, and entrepreneurs are expected to benefit, while infrastructure and quality of life in Udon Thani and surrounding areas will also improve.
The public is invited to follow and visit the expo to experience Thailand's plant diversity and agricultural innovation, supporting tourism and local entrepreneurs for sustained benefits to Udon Thani and the upper Isan region.
An additional budget of 250 million baht, or 10 percent of the total 2.5 billion baht budget, was approved following recommendations from the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH), the organization that granted Thailand hosting rights. AIPH inspected progress in December 2025, finding 40 percent completion but noting some areas needing improvement to meet international standards. The organizing committee therefore approved the extra funding to enhance readiness.
Beyond economic gains, the expo offers Thailand a platform to showcase biodiversity and agricultural innovation globally, while expanding green space in Udon Thani and upper Isan. The government plans to repurpose the site after the event into a permanent international convention center, agricultural product and innovation exhibition area, public park, and conservation tourism destination for the Mekong sub-region, with support for restoration and maintenance before handing over to the Udon Thani Provincial Administrative Organization for ongoing management.
