Bangkok: A ban on the establishment or expansion of factories that use mercury and the use of mercury in the manufacturing process will be effective from September 1, 2025. Mr. Ekanat Promphan, Minister of Industry, revealed that he has signed the Ministry of Industry's announcement prohibiting the establishment or expansion of factories that use mercury or mercury compounds in the manufacturing process. This move aligns with the Minamata Convention's objective to control and eliminate the use and release of mercury from point sources. Thailand became a member of the convention on June 22, 2017, and it has been in effect for the country since September 20, 2017.
According to Thai News Agency, the announcement, approved in principle by the Cabinet on December 24, 2024, aims to control, reduce, and eliminate the production, import, and export of mercury and mercury compounds from key point sources. These include mercury supply and trade sources, mercury additives, mercury production processes, small-scale gold mining, waste management, and mercury-contaminated areas. The comprehensive measure covers all sectors and aims to protect human health and the environment from mercury and mercury compounds released into the air and into soil or water.
Mr. Nattapol Rangsitpol, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, stated that this ministerial announcement will regulate factories in five manufacturing processes: chlor-alkali production; acetaldehyde production using mercury and mercury compounds as catalysts; vinyl chloride monomer production; sodium or potassium methylate or ethylate production; and polyurethane production using mercury as a catalyst. The announcement will be effective in controlling mercury emissions from manufacturing processes, reducing environmental pollution, and posing health risks to the public. Furthermore, it will benefit Thailand's role in complying with international obligations, enhancing Thailand's image in the international environmental arena, fostering international cooperation, and promoting legal development.
Mr. Pornyot Klangkrong, Director-General of the Department of Industrial Works (DIW), stated that the DIW, as the regulatory agency responsible for legal matters, particularly those related to the Hazardous Substances Act B.E. 2535 (1992) and the Factory Act B.E. 2535 (1992), is prepared to comply with the Minamata Convention's requirements. The DIW has issued this ministerial announcement to prevent the potential future use of mercury and mercury compounds in new factories or establishments.