Opening New Opportunities in Southeast Asia’s Water Sector
Ahead of the first edition of Aquatech Asia — 25–27 November 2026 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok — NTCC Executive Director Hans van den Born spoke with Exhibition Director Rene Bos about why RAI Amsterdam is bringing its world-leading water technology brand to Southeast Asia, and what it means for Dutch companies active in the region.
Hans: Many of our members know the Aquatech brand from Amsterdam. Why did RAI Amsterdam decide that now is the right time to launch Aquatech Asia Exhibition & Conference in Bangkok?
Aquatech has been the world’s leading trade exhibition for water technology for more than sixty years. Following successful editions in Amsterdam, China and Mexico for decades now, we believe the time is right to establish a dedicated Aquatech event for Southeast Asia.
The region is one of the world’s fastest-growing economic areas and is simultaneously facing major water challenges. Climate change, urbanisation, industrial development and increasing pressure on water resources are creating an urgent need for innovative technologies, smarter water management and sustainable investment.
Together with our co-organiser and Dutch-rooted VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific, one of the region’s leading exhibition organisers, we are bringing the Aquatech concept to Bangkok. The combination of Aquatech’s domain-specific expertise, our international network and VNU Exhibition’s strong presence across the ASEAN region and organisational expertise provide a unique foundation for connecting the global water sector with Southeast Asia’s rapidly developing markets.
Our ambition is not simply to organise an exhibition. We want Aquatech Asia to become the meeting place where governments, utilities, industries, investors, engineers, knowledge institutes and technology providers come together to accelerate practical solutions for the region’s water challenges.
Hans: Aquatech is traditionally known as a technology exhibition. Yet I understand Aquatech Asia also places strong emphasis on water management. Why is that?
Because today’s water challenges require integrated solutions. Technology remains essential, but successful implementation increasingly depends on governance, financing, climate resilience and long-term planning. The Netherlands has built its international reputation by combining technological innovation with world-class expertise in integrated water management, and that combination is highly relevant for Southeast Asia.
Alongside technologies such as treatment, filtration, membranes, pumps, digital water, desalination and water reuse, Aquatech Asia will therefore address topics including flood and drought management, delta planning, coastal protection, urban resilience, nature-based solutions and project financing.
Our conference programme reflects this broader vision, bringing together leading experts from government, multilateral development banks, utilities, engineering consultancies, academia and the private sector from both Asia and Europe.
Hans: Where do you see the greatest opportunities for Dutch companies?
The opportunities extend far beyond suppliers of water technology. Dutch (and other international) engineering firms, consultants, software developers, digital solution providers, research institutes and innovative SMEs all have expertise that is increasingly in demand across Thailand and the wider ASEAN region.
Governments and industries are investing heavily in climate resilience, water security, wastewater treatment, industrial water management and sustainable urban development. Many of these projects require integrated approaches rather than stand-alone products.
Dutch organisations are internationally recognised for precisely that combination of technology, knowledge and practical implementation.
Aquatech Asia offers an efficient way to engage with the organisations that shape these developments, from utilities and government agencies to engineering firms, investors and industrial end-users throughout Southeast Asia.
Hans: The NTCC actively supports Dutch businesses looking to expand into Thailand. How can organisations such as the NTCC contribute to initiatives like Aquatech Asia?
Partnerships are essential. One of the strengths of the Dutch business community abroad is that organisations genuinely work together. The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), the Netherlands Water Partnership, knowledge institutes, industry associations and — not in the least — the NTCC each contribute their own networks and expertise.
The NTCC, in particular, plays an important role by connecting Dutch companies with the Thai business community and helping organisations better understand the local market.
For Aquatech Asia, these partnerships are invaluable. They enable us to bring together not only exhibitors and visitors, but also decision-makers, policy makers and strategic stakeholders. That creates a far richer environment for doing business than a traditional trade exhibition alone.
Hans: Finally, what message would you like to share with Dutch companies that are considering Southeast Asia?
My advice is simple: don’t wait until the market comes to you. Southeast Asia is one of the world’s most dynamic regions for water-related investment. Companies that establish relationships early will be best positioned as projects continue to develop over the coming years.
Aquatech Asia is designed as a gateway to that market. In just three days, participants can meet key stakeholders from across the region, gain valuable market insights, showcase their expertise and build long-term partnerships.
Together, RAI Amsterdam and VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific are committed to creating much more than a successful exhibition. We want Aquatech Asia to become the leading annual meeting place for the Southeast Asian water sector and a natural gateway for international companies looking to contribute to the region’s sustainable water future.
We look forward to welcoming the Dutch water community to exhibit, visit and participate in the conference of Aquatech Asia, 25–27 November 2026, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.
AQUATECH ASIA 2026
The Future of Water in Southeast Asia
DATES 25–27 November 2026
VENUE Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Bangkok, Thailand
Interested in exhibiting, visiting or joining the conference?
Rene Bos — Exhibition Director, RAI Amsterdam: [email protected]
Khun Fah — VNU Exhibitions Asia Pacific, Bangkok: [email protected]