The International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) has formally confirmed Expo İzmir 2027 as an AIPH-approved International Horticultural Show, following the signing of an amendment to the original agreement with the organisers in Türkiye.
Under the amended arrangement, İzmir will host the event from 15 April to 2 May 2027, running for 18 days. The decision underlines the significance of the Expo within the global horticultural community and reflects a shared commitment to reschedule and reposition the event within AIPH’s recognised horticultural Expo framework, ensuring clarity of scope and alignment with international standards.
The amendment confirms the official event title as Expo İzmir 2027 and formalises its transition from an International Green Exhibition to an International Horticultural Show, providing a clear framework for the next phase of planning and implementation.
Strong Local Engagement And Expert Input
Momentum for Expo İzmir 2027 was further strengthened through a major stakeholder workshop organised by the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality in November 2025. The workshop brought together more than 300 participants, including representatives from academia, professional chambers, civil society organisations, local authorities, and international consulates.
The Municipality presented its preliminary vision for the Expo, planned for the İnciraltı Urban Forest area. The expert discussion session was moderated by landscape architect and İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Council Member Elvin Sönmez and featured contributions from Yusuf Kurucu, Advisor to the İzmir Metropolitan Municipality Rural Working Group; Serdar Gökhan Şenol; and Erhan Vecdi Küçükerbaş, who shared assessments of the site and its ecological and landscape potential.
Further perspectives were provided by Aykut Akdemir, Secretary of the İzmir Branch of the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects, and Hurşit Nallı, Chair of the Board of the Ödemiş Ornamental Plant Growers Association, reflecting professional and grower viewpoints on the Expo’s development.
Across a series of thematic round-table discussions, participants addressed key topics including human health and liveable cities, ecosystem health, planting design and production, agriculture and food systems, and culture, education, and social participation. The outcomes of the workshop will be compiled into a public report, supporting the ongoing development of the Expo concept and strengthening dialogue among organisers, experts, and the wider community.
AIPH’s Role And Next Steps
As the global approving body for International Horticultural Expos, AIPH works in close collaboration with host cities and organisers to promote best practice, support international participation, and encourage long-term legacy planning. The confirmation of Expo İzmir 2027 marks an important milestone and reflects continued cooperation between AIPH and its Turkish partners.
With the revised framework now in place, preparations will continue towards delivering an international horticultural showcase that highlights the value of plants, promotes innovation, and celebrates the vital role of horticulture in global sustainability, while supporting knowledge exchange and engaging both local and global audiences.
Further updates on Expo İzmir 2027 will be shared as planning progresses.
