Minister of Industry orders urgent action to prevent ships carrying toxic waste from entering Thailand. The latest inspection found that the ship was heading towards Singapore.
Ms. Pimpattra Wichaikul, Minister of Industry, spoke about the case of foreign media reporting a statement from an NGO group calling for relevant countries to urgently intercept a ship carrying over 800 tons of toxic waste after it escaped capture in South Africa and is heading to Laem Chabang, Thailand, in the next few days. She said that yesterday, the Prime Minister ordered an investigation through various ministries. The Department of Industrial Works has secretly investigated the information, which has now revealed the origin of the ship. What can be done is to investigate and prevent it from entering Thailand. However, it must be investigated to see whether the origin of the toxic waste ship is legitimate or not, whether it complies with or violates any treaties. The latest investigation has revealed the direction of the ship.
‘The latest information is that the ship is heading towards Singapore, which we have checked and prevented from entering Thailand. However, in order to transport goods or industrial waste into Thailand, permission must be requested first, according to the treaty. We must keep a close watch,’ said Ms. Pimpattra.
As for foreign platforms entering Thailand, such as TEMU, it is admitted that it has caused concern for the government. Many ministries have cooperated in taking care of entrepreneurs and consumers. The Ministry of Industry is clear that consumers can buy cheap products, but they must be cheap and good quality. Therefore, the products sold by platforms must be of quality according to the specified standards. Chinese products affect many groups of Thai industries, not just small industries. Large industries are also affected, such as steel. However, we must maintain good relations between Thailand and China, as we export a large number of agricultural products to China.
‘We have to admit that when it
comes to large platforms, arrests or inspections are quite difficult. Recently, we discussed with the Prime Minister’s Office Minister that we will invite the platforms to talk, but it is not easy and we have to do it gradually. The same goes for tax measures. If we have to do it, it will take time, but we have to start doing it. At the same time, we have to maintain good relations between the two countries. If they come in, we have to survive. As for our products that have to be exported, especially agricultural products such as durian and rubber, they must not be affected either. Therefore, this matter must be managed well,’ said Ms. Pimpattra.
As for SME entrepreneurs, the Ministry of Industry is trying to find ways to help SMEs become stronger in terms of knowledge and capital, and is also trying to reduce obstacles, such as energy costs. The Ministry is trying to support access to energy sources with reasonable prices, unlocking solar roofs and solar farms.
Source: Thai News Agency