Thailand to Fully Ban Plastic Waste Imports Starting Next Wednesday

Introduction

According to a report by The Nationon December 18, Thailand will ban the import of plastic waste as raw material for industrial factories starting January 1, 2025 (next Wednesday). The Department of Foreign Trade announced on Tuesday that importers in Thailand would no longer be allowed to bring plastic waste into the country. This measure aims to prevent harmful substances from entering the environment and impacting public health.

Background of the Ban

This initiative was initially proposed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and was approved by the Parliament on December 3. It was later published in the official government gazette on December 16. The Director of the Department of Foreign Trade stated that this measure supplements Clause 39.15 of Thailand's Customs Tariff, covering waste, accompanying substances, and plastic waste imports.

Previously, the policy allowed the import of plastic waste under conditions of local supply shortages and with approval from the Department of Industrial Works. However, with the supplemental clause in effect, all imports of plastic waste will be banned starting January 1, 2025. Importers were advised to complete any affected imports by December 31, 2024.

Expected Impact

The Director, Arada Fuangtong, highlighted that the ban would encourage the development of Thailand's plastic recycling sector, ensure more efficient resource utilization, and reduce the overall volume of unused plastic waste. Additionally, the measure is expected to help mitigate pollution that harms the environment and public health.

(Content and images sourced from the internet.)