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Thailand's E-Waste Crisis: 60,000 Tonnes and Rising

6/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Thailand is facing a mounting e-waste crisis, with inspectors targeting unlicensed recycling operations. Since a 2020 import ban, e-waste has skyrocketed from 3,000 to 60,000 tonnes each year. This surge, largely driven by Chinese-owned facilities, threatens both the environment and local communities, prompting a decisive government response led by industry minister Akanat Promphan.

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Story summary

Thailand is facing a mounting e-waste crisis, with inspectors targeting unlicensed recycling operations. Since a 2020 import ban, e-waste has skyrocketed from 3,000 to 60,000 tonnes each year. This surge, largely driven by Chinese-owned facilities, threatens both the environment and local communities, prompting a decisive government response led by industry minister Akanat Promphan.