Thailand and Myanmar to Link Monitoring Systems and Share Air Pollution Data
Thailand and Myanmar agreed to integrate air pollution monitoring systems and share data to combat transboundary haze affecting the region, with Thailand providing technical support to strengthen Myanmar's environmental infrastructure under
CHIANG MAI — On May 19, 2026, Thai and Myanmar officials agreed to strengthen cooperation on tackling transboundary haze pollution by integrating monitoring platforms and sharing air pollution data under a long-term regional strategy, Thai authorities announced.
The meeting held in Chiang Mai under the "Clear Sky Strategy 2024–2030" brought together Surin Worakitthamrong, director-general of Thailand's Pollution Control Department, and Dr. San Oo, director-general of Myanmar's Environmental Conservation Department, along with representatives from other agencies to discuss joint responses to the annual cross-border haze crisis affecting the Mekong region.
Surin reported that Myanmar had reduced wildfire hotspots by 12% in 2025 compared to the previous year, based on the latest Myanmar government data.
He said the reduction reflected Myanmar's enforcement of environmental protection laws and public awareness campaigns in high-risk areas, though major challenges remain, particularly limited air-quality monitoring infrastructure and incomplete environmental databases.
Thai officials said Thailand would provide technical support to Myanmar to strengthen long-term trilateral cooperation in addressing haze pollution, including: • developing online platforms and websites for reporting transboundary haze conditions and air quality in Myanmar • providing technical assistance on air-quality standards, Air Quality Index systems and Myanmar's national air-quality management planning • sharing expertise in developing fire-risk maps using hotspot-monitoring technology to improve wildfire response capabilities
Surin said sharing technology and knowledge would help connect regional air-pollution data systems and improve the accuracy and effectiveness of cross-border haze management across the Mekong region.
