BANGKOK, Thailand – Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Suchart Chomklin has proposed stricter controls on scrap metal imports to prevent illegal smuggling of electronic waste and hazardous materials. He emphasized a comprehensive management approach to protect public health and the environment.
The Minister attended a meeting of the Electronic Waste Management Committee on October 30, 2026, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Suphajee Suthumpun. The meeting addressed electronic waste and scrap metal management, emphasizing improved coordination among relevant agencies. Key topics included tightening import controls, preventing illegal imports of electronic waste and hazardous materials, and developing coordinated management strategies.
The Minister said that the Pollution Control Department (PCD) has worked with the Customs Department and the Department of Industrial Works to inspect shipping containers suspected of carrying illegal electronic waste. Authorities have also inspected factories in response to public complaints, especially in eastern Thailand.
The Minister emphasized that solutions should address the entire process, from importation to final disposal. He proposed stricter controls on scrap metal imports instead of a complete ban. Importers should disclose any contaminants in scrap metal, specify the purpose of importation, and identify the receiving factories.
The ministry also recommended considering measures for scrap metal exports in addition to import controls to ensure a comprehensive waste management approach.
The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to cooperate with all relevant agencies, particularly by assigning personnel to support the Ministry of Industry’s 50 operational teams responsible for facility inspections and addressing issues in affected areas.
The Ministry warned that improper management of electronic waste and hazardous materials could contaminate soil and water and pose public health risks. It reiterated its commitment to strengthening interagency cooperation to prevent illegal hazardous waste imports and reduce pollution risks to communities and the environment. (NNT)
