Bangkok: The government has established a joint working group comprising four ministries to manage plastic pellets, aiming to increase the use of recycled plastic domestically. Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Industry, revealed the results of a meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Ms. Supajee Suthamphan, regarding the management of plastic pellets. He stated that due to the situation in the Middle East, plastic pellets in Thailand have become increasingly scarce. Discussions focused on establishing a joint working group comprising representatives from the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Industry, the Ministry of Public Health, and the Ministry of Interior.

According to Thai News Agency, this working group will invite industry and relevant private sector stakeholders to discuss how to address the scarcity of plastic pellets, which are a key raw material in the production of many plastic products, from medical supplies to everyday plastic bags. The discussion will cover the current high cost, existing stockpiles, and the selling prices, which have driven up market prices.

Mr. Varawut stated that one of the key measures is that Thailand currently produces approximately 2.7 million tons of plastic waste, and only 25% of that amount is recycled or reused. Today is the time for everyone to prioritize recycling because when recycled correctly, the shortage of plastic pellets and other raw materials will no longer be a problem. The industrial sector will have access to raw materials at lower costs, eliminating the need to sell goods at higher prices. This will strengthen and ensure the sustainability of the industrial sector. However, this requires the collective effort of everyone, as recycling is crucial for reducing the cost of new raw materials, a priority for the industrial sector. The rising costs stemming from the situation in the Middle East have a ripple effect across the board.

Today is the time for change. From now on, a joint working group established by various agencies will begin discussions with different industries and find ways to prevent the cost of living and prices from rising.