DIW joins forces to integrate End-of-Life EV battery management plan, Aiming to Prevent Industrial Waste Crisis as EV Numbers Surge to 5.4 million units by 2030

The Department of Industrial Works (DIW) recently joined discussions with various agencies under the Ministry of Industry to develop an integrated management plan for end-of-life electric vehicle (EV) batteries, aiming to prevent future industrial waste issues.

Currently, Thailand has approximately 1 million cumulative EVs and expected to reach 5.4 million units by 2030. With an average battery lifespan of 12 years or 300,000 kilometers, Thailand will soon face a significant volume of end-of-life EV batteries. These must be managed properly, as they contain hazardous substances. However, they also contain valuable raw materials recovered under the Circular Economy concept. Properly managing end-of-life EV batteries that suit the local context is crucial for establishing guidelines and leading to long-term sustainability.

On March 13, 2026, the DIW discussed end-of-life EV batteries management and the amendment of relevant regulations based on an integrated collaboration with other agencies under the Ministry of Industry, in line with the Ministry's policy and the 'MIND AS ONE' guidelines, to manage, resolve, and establish preventive measures against future industrial waste issues under standardized legal enforcement.

The discussion was part of an audit on "Industrial Waste Management" conducted by the Monitoring and Evaluation Committee of the Ministry of Industry. The meeting, held at the Office of Industrial Economics, was attended by Chief Inspectors General of the Ministry, former Inspectors General of the Ministry, representatives from the Office of the Permanent Secretary, the Department of Primary Industries and Mines, the Office of Industrial Economics, and the Thailand Automotive Institute.

Reference: https://www.diw.go.th/webdiw/pr69-094/