Thailand notifies WTO of draft regulation to restrict mercury in electrical and electronic equipment

On 12 February 2024, the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of a draft Ministerial Regulation Prescribing Industrial Products for Mercury-Added Electrical and Electronic Equipment to Conform to the Standards B.E. The deadline for comments is 60 days from the date of notification.

Objective:

The proposed draft Ministerial Regulation aims to ensure the protection of human health and the environment by restricting the use of mercury in certain electrical and electronic equipment. With a focus on public wellfare, this regulation aims to reduce potential health risks associated with mercury exposure and to reduce environmental contamination.

Rationale:

Mercury, a toxic heavy metal, poses significant risks to human health and the environment. Exposure to mercury can lead to serious health problems, including neurological disorders, developmental disorders, and environmental pollution. By restricting the use of mercury in specific electrical and electronic equipment, the Regulation aims to address urgent concerns public health and environmental safety concerns.

Responsible Agency:

The Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI), under the Ministry of Industry, will be responsible for overseeing the implementation and enforcement of the proposed regulation. As a regulatory body, TISI plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with industrial standards to protect public health and environmental integrity.

Description of Content:

According to the WTO notification released on 12 February 2024, the draft Ministerial Regulation mandates adherence to the TIS 3604–25XX (20XX) Mercury-Added Product – Restriction of the Use of Mercury for the following electrical and electronic equipment:

• Button zinc silver oxide batteries

• Button zinc air batteries

• Inclination switches

• Temperature switches

• Electronic acceleration switches (G sensors)

• Overcurrent protection switches

• Switches and relays for measurement, control, and transmission

• Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs)

• Linear fluorescent lamps (LFLs)

• Cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFL) and external electrode fluorescent lamps (EEEL)

Timeline:

The adoption date for the regulation is yet to be determined. The regulation will enter into force 270 days after publication in the Government Gazette.