UDON THANI, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat welcomed visitors to the Udon Thani International Horticultural Expo 2026 on November 1, 2026, and highlighted agricultural innovation, biodiversity, and sustainable development.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, through the Department of Agriculture, organized the opening event at Nong Dae Wetland in cooperation with Udon Thani Province and partner organizations. Attendees included Labor Minister Julapun Amornvivat, Deputy Agriculture Minister Watcharaphon Khaokham, senior government officials, International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) Secretary General Tim Briercliffe, and Udon Thani Governor Chaiwat Chuenkosum.
The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the expo is more than a horticultural exhibition, advancing three priorities: Planting Life, Planting the Economy, and Planting the Future. These priorities focus on restoring natural ecosystems, generating income for farmers and communities, and applying science and innovation to develop high-value agriculture. The exhibition also serves as a living laboratory, supporting practical learning and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The expo features 32 international gardens from 17 countries and two international organizations, 16 Thai organizational gardens, over 50 plant display gardens, and more than one million flowering and ornamental plants in rotating displays. Six exhibition zones highlight international horticulture, agricultural technology, Isan cultural heritage, greenhouse displays, environmental innovation, and plant conservation.
The 134-day event runs through March 14, 2027, and features more than 200 cultural performances and activities. The Deputy Prime Minister also invited Thai and international visitors to experience the displays and explore opportunities in sustainable agricultural development. (NNT)
