BANGKOK: The Ministry of Industry in Thailand is implementing stringent measures to safeguard its steel industry from the adverse effects of dumping by neighboring countries. The ministry is focusing on enhancing controls over products such as “hardened wire” and “coated steel sheets” to support the industry and enforce trade protection regulations.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekkanat Promphan, the Minister of Industry, has acknowledged the challenges faced by the Thai steel industry due to dumping practices. In response, the ministry has introduced comprehensive measures, including the imposition of tariffs on hot-rolled steel sheets and non-alloyed coils. Additionally, the ministry is raising the level of control over all types of steel products by announcing four new mandatory standards. These standards include hardened and tempered wire for prestressed concrete, EG steel, GI steel, and Aluzinc steel. The Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) has been tasked with strictly regulating the import
and distribution of steel.
Mr. Ekkanat emphasized the importance of consumers checking for the TIS mark and QR Code on steel product labels. Scanning the QR Code reveals crucial information such as the licensee’s name, manufacturer’s details, and the country of origin, ensuring compliance with TISI standards.
Mr. Wanchai Phanomchai, Secretary-General of TISI, stated that the institute is aligning its operations with the Ministry of Industry’s policy to intensify product control, particularly for products impacting public safety. By 2024-2025, TISI plans to announce 58 additional standards, increasing from the current 144. Four new standards are set to take effect soon, including those for hardened and tempered wire and coated steel sheets.
The standards for hardened and tempered wire for prestressed concrete, used in construction projects, will be effective from March 12, 2025. For coated steel sheets, three standards will be implemented: Galvanized flat steel (EG steel) from March 12, 2025, Cold rolled ga
lvanized flat steel (GI steel), and Aluzinc steel from June 10, 2025. Violations related to importing or distributing substandard goods carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.