Udon Thani:Deputy Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongsalooykorn has clarified the controversy surrounding the upcoming 2026 Udon Thani International Horticultural Exposition. The event has faced criticisms regarding budget issues, venue readiness, and event standards. She emphasized that the project has been under the new management of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives for only 5-6 months, and efforts are being made to address the issues without shirking responsibility.
According to Thai News Agency, the Deputy Spokesperson highlighted that the government is attentive to public opinions and concerns, and is working to provide comprehensive clarification, particularly about the project's timeline. The Ministry took over the project recently, although it has been in planning and development for several years. The transition to the new management comes with challenges such as time, budget constraints, and existing commitments. However, the Ministry is prioritizing expedited monitoring, verification, and problem resolution to ensure the event's efficiency.
Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi addressed complaints from the public following the opening ceremony, stating that the government is focused on improving visitor experiences. This includes management of ticketing, entry/exit systems, shuttle services, and the enhancement of convenience at public service areas. Agencies have been instructed to promptly address these issues to facilitate better experiences for citizens and tourists alike.
The International Association of Horticultural Proceedings (AIPH) has approved the event at the B level since 2022, which carries specific criteria different from larger-scale A1 level events. The Deputy Spokesperson also stressed the importance of transparency and cost-effectiveness in budget and procurement processes. The project's total budget is 2,750 million baht, covering various operational aspects. A thorough review of budgets, contracts, and disbursements is necessary to ensure transparency and accountability.
Captain Pattarasmi reiterated the government's openness to public feedback, which is crucial for improving operations. Any discovered shortcomings must be addressed promptly, and improper procedures investigated according to legal standards. The evaluation of the expo's success will consider both operational outcomes and long-term benefits such as economic stimulation and tourism, aiming to position Udon Thani as a regional hub. The assessment will be based on actual data rather than projections.