Thailand is strengthening its position as ASEAN’s emerging hub for water innovation, technology and sustainable infrastructure with the launch of Aquatech Asia 2026, the Asian edition of the world’s leading water technology tradeshow and conference.
The event was officially announced during a press conference hosted by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Thailand in Bangkok, underlining the strong and long-standing partnership between Thailand and the Netherlands in water management, climate resilience and sustainable development.
Organised by VNU Asia Pacific in partnership with RAI Amsterdam, Aquatech Asia 2026 will take place from 25–27 November 2026 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC). The event is set to become a leading regional platform, connecting global technology providers, policymakers, utilities, industrial users, researchers, investors and infrastructure developers from across Asia and beyond.
The launch comes at a pivotal moment for Southeast Asia, where climate change, rapid urbanisation, industrial growth and increasing pressure on water resources are intensifying. Water security is no longer just an environmental concern — it is a critical factor shaping economic growth, industrial competitiveness, food security, energy resilience and quality of life.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Christiaan A. Bergwerff, First Secretary of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Thailand, emphasised the importance of international collaboration:
“Water management is a shared priority for both the Netherlands and Thailand, as well as many countries across Southeast Asia. Aquatech Asia will provide a global platform for sharing innovation, exchanging knowledge and strengthening partnerships to support sustainable growth across the region.”
Globally recognised for its expertise in flood protection, delta management and integrated water solutions, the Netherlands brings valuable knowledge and experience to the partnership. For Thailand, the launch of Aquatech Asia represents more than the arrival of a leading international exhibition — it reflects the country’s ambition to become a centre for water innovation and sustainable infrastructure development within ASEAN.
Mr. Duangdej Yuaikwarmdee, CEO of VNU Asia Pacific, highlighted the strategic importance of water:
“Water is no longer simply an environmental issue — it is a strategic driver of future economic growth and national resilience. Aquatech Asia is not just an exhibition; it is a platform that brings together governments, industry leaders, researchers and innovators to address one of the world’s most pressing challenges.”
Mr. Rene Bos, Exhibition Director of Aquatech China and Asia at RAI Amsterdam, added:
“Thailand offers a unique combination of industrial demand, regional connectivity and a strong focus on sustainable infrastructure. This makes it an ideal location for Aquatech’s expansion in Asia. We see significant opportunities to connect global technology leaders with regional stakeholders and accelerate innovation and business collaboration.”
Aquatech Asia 2026 will present cutting-edge solutions across the entire water value chain, including water and wastewater treatment, water reuse, filtration and membrane technologies, smart water management, AI-powered monitoring, and flood and drought mitigation — all aimed at supporting sustainable urban and industrial development.
The launch also featured a high-level panel discussion titled “Advancing Water Resilience in Thailand and Beyond: Priorities, Partnerships, and What to Expect at Aquatech Asia 2026.” Experts from government, industry and academia agreed that strengthening water resilience in Thailand and across Southeast Asia requires closer collaboration, increased investment and the integration of technology, policy and data-driven approaches.
Key speakers emphasised the importance of integrated planning, reliable data, long-term strategy and the translation of research into practical, scalable solutions. The discussion reinforced the need to bridge policy, technology and knowledge-sharing to build a more water-secure and climate-resilient future.
Aquatech Asia 2026
25–27 November 2026
Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Bangkok, Thailand
For more information, visit: Aquatech Asia website
