Bangkok:Authorities have intercepted over 48 tons of electronic waste smuggled from Brazil, disguised as scrap metal, at the border.
According to Thai News Agency, the Customs Department, led by Director-General Panthong Loykulnan, seized the waste as part of efforts to uphold government policies aimed at curbing the smuggling of hazardous materials into the country. These policies, under the leadership of Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ekniti Nitithanprapas, emphasize protecting the environment and public health from the threat of hazardous waste.
The Laem Chabang Port Customs Office played a crucial role in this operation by analyzing risk factors and inspecting the shipment, which was declared to be scrap metal originating from Brazil and weighing a total of 48,213 kilograms. Upon detailed inspection, customs officials discovered that the container included not only the declared scrap metal but also hazardous materials like electronic circuit boards, which are prohibited from import under various national and international regulations.
These items fall under the classification of hazardous materials as defined by the Hazardous Substances Act and the Ministry of Industry's regulations. The importation of such waste is also barred by the Ministry of Commerce's Announcement and the Basel Convention. Consequently, the actions of those involved constitute offenses under multiple sections of the Customs Act and related laws.
Director-General Loykulnan affirmed the department's ongoing commitment to monitoring and preventing illegal imports of electronic and hazardous waste, in line with international obligations. Plans are underway to repatriate the seized waste back to Brazil with the cooperation of relevant agencies, ensuring compliance with international waste management protocols.