Bangkok: The Industrial Committee has announced that the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) has lifted the seizure of steel from Xinkeyuan Co., Ltd. for lots that passed quality standards. However, the seizure remains in place for lots that failed to meet standards. The committee is planning to recommend to the new Minister of Industry that the production of IF steel in Thailand be completely canceled to ensure the public receives high-quality construction steel.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Akaradej Wongpitakroj, Chairman of the Industrial Committee, disclosed the committee’s findings regarding TISI’s decision to lift the seizure on certain steel lots. The committee had summoned TISI, represented by its Secretary-General and Deputy Secretary-General, for an explanation, alongside the Department of Industrial Works represented by its Deputy Director-General. Executives from Xinkeyuan Co., Ltd. were also invited but did not attend.
The seized steel comprised two lots. The first lot, consisting of 2,000 pieces, was inspected and seized by TISI officials and tested by the Iron and Steel Institute. Officials noted that the steel met specific dimensions and standards, leading to the lifting of the seizure. The second lot, comprising 40,000 pieces, underwent both physical and chemical testing, and after passing these tests, the seizure was also lifted.
The committee raised concerns over red dust, a hazardous substance. Tens of thousands of tons of this dust have been seized, and its chemical composition is under scrutiny to determine if it was smuggled. The committee suggested conducting a mass balance test to verify the consistency of production figures and the amount of red dust used. The red dust is currently under legal consideration by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), and the committee urged straightforward legal action.
Regarding Xinkeyuan Co., Ltd.’s request to resume production, TISI officials will ensure quality and pollution control compliance before granting permission. The committee, alongside the Pollution Control Department, will oversee inspections to ensure transparency. The TISI Secretary-General emphasized that the quality control process will be rigorously checked both in the factory and in the market to maintain industry standards and consumer confidence.
The committee intends to address the new Minister of Industry about the IF steel production process. The previous Minister had considered halting IF production due to its substandard quality and environmental impact. The committee advocates for transitioning to EF production, a process that is less polluting and ensures higher steel quality. The aim is to provide manufacturers time to adjust while ensuring the availability of quality construction steel to the public.