The Isan Agricultural Fair 2025, the largest agricultural innovation and technology showcase in Northeastern Thailand, concluded with unprecedented success. Held from January 24 to February 2, 2025, at the sprawling Agricultural Technology Park, Khon Kaen University, the event spanned over 200 rai (approximately 80 acres) and embraced the theme: “Creative Isan Agriculture: Driving Soft Power and Modernizing Agriculture for Sustainable Development in Thailand.”
Record-Breaking Attendance and Economic Impact
This year’s fair set a historic milestone, attracting 1,139,084 visitors, more than doubling last year’s attendance of 663,000. According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Darunee Jothityangkoon, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, the attendance figures were meticulously tracked using an advanced AI-powered data collection system combined with camera technology. The system ensured accuracy by cross-verifying data with an evaluation team.
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Visitors spent an average of 1,000 baht per person, resulting in over 1 billion baht in economic circulation, a significant boost for the local economy.
“This year’s record-breaking attendance reflects the growing interest in agricultural innovation and the success of our efforts to modernize and promote Thai agriculture on a global scale,” said the Dean.
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Collaboration and Soft Power in Action
The fair’s success was not just about numbers—it was a testament to the power of collaboration. The event brought together 85 academic staff, 117 support staff, 2,221 students, and over 50 public and private sector partners.
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A key highlight was the integration of “Soft Power” through food, fashion, and culture, which added value to agricultural products and showcased the potential of local resources for global markets. The fair inspired entrepreneurs, students, and young artists to explore innovative ways to combine tradition with modernity.
“This event is more than just a fair—it’s a large-scale learning platform for agriculture students, offering hands-on experience in event organization and showcasing the potential of Thai agriculture to the world,” Dean Darunee emphasized.
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Acknowledgments and Future Aspirations
Dean Darunee expressed heartfelt gratitude to all contributors, including the Faculty of Agriculture staff and students, who worked tirelessly to make the event a success. She also thanked Khon Kaen University for its unwavering support.
Looking ahead, she invited everyone to the Isan Agricultural Fair 2026, promising even greater milestones for Thai agriculture.
A Legacy of Agricultural Excellence
The Isan Agricultural Fair has grown from a modest student produce market into a premier agricultural expo, held annually to celebrate the founding anniversary of Khon Kaen University (January 25). The event serves as a platform for showcasing cutting-edge agricultural innovations, addressing food security, and integrating local culture with modern agricultural practices.
With its rich history and forward-looking vision, the fair continues to reflect Khon Kaen University’s commitment to advancing agriculture, empowering farmers, and driving sustainable development in Thailand.
