Sports Minister Eyes Child Boxer Safety Law Overhaul
Thailand's sports minister pledged to overhaul child boxing laws with safety as the top priority, balancing sport promotion with child protection through new safety standards and equipment support for youth boxing camps.
Sports Minister Surasak Pancharoenwakul stated he is prepared to listen to all parties to revise child boxing laws and strike a balance between promoting the sport and protecting children, with child safety as the top priority.
On July 6, 2025, at 2:30 p.m., Surasak held a press conference following a meeting on Thai sports development strategies. He revealed progress on government restructuring plans, which include establishing an independent Ministry of Sports and consolidating tourism functions with the Culture Ministry to enhance overall sports and tourism administration. The legal proceedings are expected to be completed by late this year or early next year.
The minister explained that creating a dedicated Sports Ministry is crucial for developing Thailand's sports industry as an economic engine generating income and careers. This will be coupled with advances in sports science, systematic athlete development, and expanded youth sports access to boost Thailand's international standing.
Regarding anti-doping oversight, Surasak disclosed that the meeting approved upgrading the sports anti-doping agency to public organization status, ensuring independent and transparent operations while reducing conflicts of interest between regulatory and competition-organizing bodies. This will elevate Thailand's anti-doping standards to international acceptance.
On youth boxer safety, the minister stressed that child protection remains paramount. The ministry and Thai Sports Authority are implementing standard safety measures and protective equipment while consulting relevant agencies to refine boxing laws balancing sport promotion with child welfare. Additionally, the government plans to provide equipment and budget support to boxing camps to reduce operational costs and sustainably enhance youth athlete safety.
