Industry Ministry Advances Hazardous Waste Management to OECD Standards
Thailand is upgrading hazardous waste management and chemical systems to meet OECD standards as part of its push toward full membership by 2028. The Industry Ministry is coordinating with government and private sector organizations to align
Industrial Minister Warawuth Silparacha announced that the ministry is accelerating efforts to upgrade business capacity and hazardous waste management systems to meet international standards, preparing Thailand for full membership in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) by 2028. Thailand currently holds accession candidate status in the OECD membership process. Following a December 26, 2023 Cabinet resolution, the Department of Industrial Works, the Thai Industrial Standards Institute, and the Department of Medical Sciences have been designated as lead agencies for technical assessments, working with the OECD's Chemicals and Biotechnology Committee (CBC) to support sustainable development while protecting public health and the environment. The initiative aims to prevent trade barriers, reduce costs for the country and industry, and standardize chemical management systems. The ministry is implementing these policies and practices in ways appropriate to Thailand's context while aligning with international standards. Last week, the Department of Industrial Works held meetings with 158 organizations from government, private sector, and independent agencies to discuss preparation guidelines and the benefits of OECD membership, and to clarify understanding of instruments under the CBC committee for coordinated implementation. OECD membership is significant for upgrading the entire legal framework, improving governance and transparency, and attracting foreign investment. The Prime Minister and government are pushing to complete Thailand's transition to full OECD membership within the coming year.
