The Thai government has confirmed that the import of all plastic waste will be banned from January 1, 2025. In addition, regulations will be introduced to control plastic waste imports this year and next. The government has been progressively tightening the legislative noose around the impact of plastics in Thailand, particularly with new laws for single-use plastics.
According to a Thai PBS World report, 14 recycling plants located within the tax-free zone will have their waste imports restricted to a combined production capacity of 372,994 tonnes for 2023. This limit will be halved for 2024.
To import plastic waste for processing outside the tax-free zone, importers must provide evidence that the imports are required to meet production demands due to supply shortages. The plastic waste must be used as raw material in the production process without requiring cleaning.
According to deputy government spokesperson, Tipanan Sirichana, the decision to eventually ban the import of all plastic waste from 2025 reflects the government’s aim to protect the environment and control pollution to safeguard public health.
SOURCE: Thai PBS World
