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Starting 1 January 2025, Thailand will implement a full ban on plastic waste imports, aiming to safeguard public health and the environment, the Department of Foreign Trade announced. This move reflects the country’s ongoing efforts to mitigate pollution and reduce the risks associated with hazardous materials, The Nation reported.
Thailand’s Cabinet approved a proposal from the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry on December 3 to prohibit plastic waste imports, with the decision officially published in the Royal Gazette on Monday, December 16. According to Arada Fuangtong, Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, the ban involves revising item 39.15 of Thailand’s Tariff Schedule, which governs the importation of plastic scraps, parings, and waste materials.
Under the previous regulations, importing plastic scraps into Thailand was allowed if domestic supply fell short, subject to approval from the Department of Industrial Works. However, following the recent amendment, all plastic waste imports will be completely prohibited starting 1 January, with no exceptions.
The department has informed importers that they must finalise all outstanding shipments of affected plastic waste by 31 December, marking the final opportunity to bring such materials into the country, she stated.
This decision stems from a cabinet resolution passed on 21 February 2023, directing relevant agencies to develop measures controlling the import of plastic scraps intended for use as raw materials in industrial production. The resolution also mandates initiatives to enhance domestic plastic waste recycling, aligning with the principles of the Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economic model.
‘The ban on imports will help stimulate plastic recycling in Thailand, ensuring more efficient resource usage and reducing the amount of unused plastic waste. This will also help reduce pollution that could impact the environment and public health,’ said Arada Fuangtong.