Udon Thani:The government is revamping the Udon Thani Horticultural Expo, creating a new landmark to attract 3.6 million tourists and generate over 20 billion baht in revenue, boosting the local economy.
According to Thai News Agency, Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongsalooykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, is moving forward with the organization of the Udon Thani Expo 2026, which will take place from November 1, 2026, to March 14, 2027. The aim is to make it an international-standard event, create economic opportunities for the people, and promote Thailand as a tourist destination and a country with significant agricultural potential.
This event is expected to attract over 3.6 million participants, generating over 20 billion baht in economic value for the country, creating over 81,000 jobs, and generating over 7.7 billion baht in tax revenue for the government. Hotels, restaurants, transportation businesses, and other local entrepreneurs will have opportunities to increase their income. At the same time, preparing to welcome tourists will also promote the development of infrastructure and improve the quality of life for people in Udon Thani and surrounding areas.
The increase in the event budget by 250 million baht, or 10 percent of the total budget of 2,500 million baht, is in accordance with the recommendations of the International Association of Horticultural Society (AIPH), the organization that granted Thailand the right to host the event. AIPH inspected the progress in December 2025, at which time the project was 40 percent complete. The Association assessed that some aspects still needed improvement to meet the required event standards. Therefore, the organizing committee resolved to increase the budget to further develop and ensure the event's readiness.
Besides the economic benefits, the World Horticultural Expo provided an opportunity for Thailand to showcase its biodiversity and agricultural innovations to the international community. It also increased green space in Udon Thani province and the upper northeastern region. The government plans to further develop the area after the expo into a center for international events, a showcase for agricultural products and innovations, a permanent public park, and an ecotourism destination for the Greater Mekong Subregion. Support will be provided for the restoration and maintenance of the area before the Cabinet considers transferring its management to the Udon Thani Provincial Administrative Organization.
The Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office invited the public to follow and visit the World Horticultural Expo in Udon Thani Province, which is an opportunity to experience the diversity of plants and the advancements in Thai agriculture. He also encouraged support for tourism and local businesses, ensuring that this event continues to benefit Udon Thani Province and the Isaan region.