Thailand Moves to Tighten Regulations on Metal Scrap Imports and Exports

On November 11, 2026, Dr. Raweewan Bhuridej, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, chaired a meeting to establish new regulatory criteria for the import and export of metal scrap. According to Khaosod Online, the initiative aims to address the growing concern over electronic waste by creating comprehensive oversight mechanisms. The meeting included representatives from the Ministry of Commerce, the Customs Department, the Department of Industrial Works, and private sector stakeholders. The discussions focused on defining specific standards for contamination levels and the characteristics of metal scrap allowed into the country. Furthermore, the committee reviewed guidelines for monitoring the import and export of iron, aluminum, and copper scrap to ensure operations align with current industrial realities and the Prime Minister's Office Order No. 401/2569 regarding the management of electronic waste. For residents and travelers, these developments signal a potential shift in industrial logistics and environmental compliance standards within Thailand. While the government is working to finalize these measures for Cabinet consideration, specific details regarding the final implementation timeline and the exact impact on trade procedures remain to be confirmed.