DIW joins forces with Thai Customs to seize 11 suspicious containers at Laem Chabang Port

DIW and the Customs Department have intensified inspections of suspicious cargo to prevent the illegal import of industrial and electronic waste into the country

On May 19, 2026, the Department of Industrial Works (DIW), in collaboration with the Laem Chabang Port Customs Office, inspected suspicious cargo containers suspected of containing scrap metal mixed with electronic waste (E-waste) and industrial chemical wastes, seized by the Laem Chabang Port Customs Office. The importing company declared the cargo as nickel alloy from Japan (1 container) and Singapore (8 containers). Additionally, 2 containers from Denmark were declared as aluminum scrap, totaling of 11 containers.

Inspections revealed mixed-sized black lumps in 8 containers, while another container contained small, mixed black and green fragments. The DIW has collected samples for laboratory analysis; if the results confirm they are hazardous waste, legal action will be pursued. Furthermore, 2 containers were found to contain aluminum scrap mixed with printed circuit boards contaminated with heavy metals. This falls under the category of chemical waste that were imported without authorization and without the prior consent of Thailand. As the competent authority under the Basel Convention for the Kingdom of Thailand, the DIW will issue a formal notification and proceed to return the waste to its countries of origin.

DIW and the Customs Department confirmed their commitment to tightening inspections of suspicious cargo containers to ensure Thailand does not become a dumping area for industrial and electronic waste. Both agencies will continue to integrate their efforts with relevant authorities to intercept illegal import networks, aiming to protect the environment and public safety.

Source: https://www.diw.go.th/webdiw/pr69-175/