Industry Minister Warns of Cyber Attacks on Thai Manufacturing, Pushes New Security Standards
Thailand's industry minister warns of escalating cyber attacks on factories and supply chains, announcing new security standards based on international frameworks to prevent production disruptions and maintain export competitiveness ahead o
Industry Minister Verawuth Silpaacha has warned that cybersecurity threats to Thailand's industrial sector are rising, particularly attacks on factory operational technology (OT) systems, automated systems, and supply chain management networks that could impact production stability, exports, and international business confidence.
The National Bureau of Agricultural Commodity and Food Standards is developing cybersecurity standards based on the IEC62443 framework for industrial control and automation systems. These standards will apply to machinery control systems and IoT networks connecting electronic devices to the internet within factories, as several regions—particularly the European Union—have begun implementing stricter digital security and supply chain safety measures.
The minister cautioned that cybersecurity compliance may become a future trade condition or non-tariff trade barrier affecting manufacturers, service providers, and supply chain participants. "If Thai industry doesn't accelerate its cybersecurity measures, especially in factories, it could harm our competitiveness, production base, and long-term investor confidence," he stated.
To address these challenges, the ministry is pursuing four strategies: upgrading industrial cybersecurity standards, developing cyber threat monitoring and response systems, building awareness of basic cyber hygiene practices for protecting devices and personal data, and preparing regulatory, standards, and personnel frameworks to meet future international trade requirements.
