Thai Delegation Explores Dutch Water Innovations at Aquatech Amsterdam 2025

Strengthening Thailand-Netherlands Collaboration in Water Management

Key Highlights:

  • Aquatech Amsterdam 2025: Thai delegation engaged with water technologies and global experts.
  • Technical Site Visits: Exploration of Molenvlietpark, Maeslantkering storm surge barrier, and pumping stations for flood and drought resilience.
  • Strengthening Bilateral Collaboration: Discussions between Thai officials and Dutch companies on future cooperation in water management.
  • Trade Mission
  • Omar Saleh
  • 17 March 2025
  • Reading time: 3 min
A Thai delegation visits as a group of people stands under large, intersecting metal structures outdoors. One person in an orange safety outfit kneels in front, possibly inspecting the area near a pumping station. The ground is wet with puddles.

Introduction

Amsterdam, Netherlands – March 12, 2025 – A high-level delegation from Thailand, led by senior officials and engineers from the Royal Irrigation Department, visited the Netherlands to participate in Aquatech Amsterdam and explore the country’s advanced flood and water management solutions. The visit was organized under the Partners for International Business (PIB) program, facilitating knowledge exchange and partnerships between Thai and Dutch water experts.

Thailand’s Water Management Challenges

Thailand faces increasing challenges in flood prevention, salinity intrusion, and sustainable irrigation. With rapid urbanization and climate change exacerbating these issues, the Royal Irrigation Department is seeking innovative, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions. The visit to the Netherlands provided an opportunity to learn from a country renowned for its centuries-old expertise in water management.

Engaging with Dutch Innovation: Technical Visits

During the visit, the delegation explored several state-of-the-art Dutch water infrastructure projects, showcasing flood resilience, real-time data analytics, and predictive modeling.

1. Molenvlietpark – The Hague

A multifunctional water storage facility, the park serves as a flood retention area while supporting urban biodiversity. The Thai delegation gained insights into how the Netherlands integrates green infrastructure with flood resilience.

2. J.J.J.M. Van der Burg Pumping Station – Monster

An advanced pumping station critical for managing water levels and preventing salinity intrusion, playing a key role in sustaining agriculture and urban water systems.

3. Maeslantkering – Hoek van Holland

A world-class storm surge barrier, part of the Delta Works, protecting millions of people from rising sea levels. The Thai engineers explored its automated flood defense system, which closes when water levels rise 5 meters above sea level.

4. Parksluizen Pumping Station – Rotterdam

A crucial site for urban flood protection, where Thai officials studied the use of concrete volute pumps for efficient water discharge.

A group of people stands in a conference room with a presentation on food and water management displayed on a screen behind them. Rows of empty chairs are in the foreground.

At an industrial facility in Amsterdam, a group observes machinery under a Konecranes beam. Large windows offer a view outside, setting the stage for innovations destined for Aquatech 2025.

A group of people stands in an industrial facility featuring large blue machinery and equipment, with a Konecranes logo visible above.

A group of people stands by a canal lock observing its mechanism. Trees and grass are in the background under a cloudy sky.

Aerial view of a large, white storm surge barrier spanning a body of water, with wind turbines and industrial buildings visible in the background.

Aerial view of a landscaped park with a pond, walking paths, and surrounding residential area. Attractions are visible in the bottom left, with trees and greenery throughout.

Satellite view of a coastal and urban area with scattered green patches, roads, and rivers visible. The top left shows a coastline, while the bottom features a network of waterways.

Quotes from Delegation Leaders

“This visit provided us with invaluable insights into how the Netherlands manages water through smart, integrated solutions. We see great potential in adopting some of these innovations to improve flood resilience in Thailand.”
– Mr. Wittaya Kaewmee, Deputy Director General for Engineering, Royal Irrigation Department

Looking Ahead

The Thailand-Netherlands water partnership continues to strengthen, with follow-up engagements planned to implement Dutch water technologies in Thailand’s urban and rural water management systems. The visit showcased how global expertise, technological innovation, and strong partnerships can drive sustainable water solutions worldwide.

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