Provisional Approval Granted: Expo 2031 Minnesota, USA staged to Host A1 International Horticultural Exposition

Ghent, Belgium – September 16, 2025 — History has been made.

At the 77th Annual AIPH Congress in Ghent, Belgium, members of the International Association of Horticultural Producers (AIPH) have provisionally approved Expo 2031 Minnesota, USA as the host of an A1 International Horticultural Exposition.

This milestone marks the first time in history that the United States has been approved to host an A1 World Horticultural Exposition — an event more commonly known in the U.S. as a World’s Fair.

A Historic Step for Minnesota, the U.S., and Global Horticulture

Expo 2031 Minnesota, USA will bring together millions of visitors from across the globe to experience the intersection of Human/Nature — where humanity and horticulture meet. The Expo will showcase horticultural innovation, climate-adapted gardens, immersive cultural programming spurring international trade and commerce.

This provisional approval represents a critical next step in the U.S. federal process and formalizes Expo 2031’s place within the AIPH family of internationally sanctioned horticultural expositions.

Business & Community Support

The decision has been met with enthusiastic support from business leaders, community partners, and the horticultural industry.

Todd Polum, CEO, SRF Consulting Group is in Ghent supporting Expo 2031 as a transformational opportunity for Minnesota’s economy and global reputation states."

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Arthij van der Veer, Co-chair, Global Horticulture Council, Global Sustainability expert, from MPS, an Investor Partner in the Expo 2031 entity shares "This is a special moment to celebrate! The AIPH endorsement of Expo 2031 is a huge step forward. This recognition accelerates the efforts of our Global Horticulture Council. We look forward to welcoming dedicated partners in agriculture and the green industry to showcase beautiful flowers, plants and produce at Expo 2031."

Andy Mielke, SVP, SRF Consulting Group, “I’m excited to be at the AIPH 77th Annual Congress in Ghent, Belgium this week. The AIPH provisional approval of Expo 2031 USA solidifies the reality of bringing a Horticulture Exposition to the United States. SRF Consulting Group is a proud partner and thrilled to be part of the team making this wonderful event happen!”

Richard Larkin McLay, Weber Johnson Public Affairs, Expo 2031 Public Affairs lead expressed, "We are honored that AIPH members have granted the United States provisional approval for an International Horticultural Expo. This recognition is a major step forward. We are excited to share the news with our federal, state, and Dakota County partners -- an update we believe will be well received."

A Catalyst for Legacy

Expo 2031 is projected to draw 4.+ million visitors, generate $2+ billion in regional economic impact, and leave a lasting legacy in Minnesota and the United States.

The Expo site in Minnesota, will feature five climate-adapted horticultural zones designed in partnership with U.S. growers and global innovators. Beyond the Expo, the site will transition into a Horticultural Innovation Campus, advancing research, education, and industry growth for decades to come.

Next Steps

With provisional approval secured, the Expo 2031 Minnesota USA team will:

• Finalize federal recognition process

• Continue convening investor partners and executive committee leaders from seven key industry sectors

• Advance site acquisition and environmental planning in coordination with local authorities

A Moment to Celebrate

Expo 2031 Minnesota, USA is more than an event — it is a national milestone and a global platform for horticulture, trade, and international collaboration.

The Official Press Announcement from the International Association of Horticultural Producers (the AIPH)

Minnesota Set to Host America’s First A1 International Horticultural Expo

https://aiph.org/latest-news/expo-2031-minnesota-provisional-approval/

Stay tuned for more updates as we move toward final approval and prepare to welcome the world to Minnesota in 2031.