Thailand industrial waste regulation and enforcement

Thailand’s Ministry of Industry has initiated a crackdown on illegal industrial waste disposal. Minister Warawut Silpa-archa announced plans to amend laws to increase fines to eight-figure sums and enable asset seizures through coordination with the Department of Special Investigation, Customs, and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment.

The Ministry is also preparing for an upcoming increase in clean technology waste, such as solar panels and electric vehicle batteries, by planning specialized recycling industrial estates with 24-hour monitoring.

Following the discovery of illegal e-waste recycling operations in Prachin Buri that caused oil leaks and environmental damage, the Minister ordered nationwide factory inspections. The government is now coordinating with the Ministry of Finance and the Anti-Money Laundering Office to investigate the financial trails of shareholders and the potential use of nominees by foreign nationals. Authorities are also considering stricter import controls on scrap plastic and seeking compensation for local residents and farmers affected by industrial leaks.