7. Thailand

PCR Plastic Packaging Regulations
Global

7.1 Regulatory Overview

The Reference legislation in Thailand is represented by Notification No.295/2548 (2005) - “Qualities or standard for container made from plastic” [1] - under the purview of the Thai Food and Drug Administration (Thai-FDA), within the Ministry of Public Health.

Clause 8 of the current version of the Notification prohibits the use of plastic containers made from re-used plastics except when used for packing fruits with peel. The general use of recycled plastics is therefore prohibited, with the exception of packaging for fruits with peel.

In addition, Clause 9 of the Notification prohibits the re-use of plastic containers for containing food if previously used to contain or pack fertilizer, toxic substances or other hazardous substances to health.

The Notification No.295 is under discussion within a dedicated Thai FDA working group and a consulting Committee, with the aim of extending its scope to include recycled plastics. The topics considered in the discussion include the ability of the recycling process to remove contaminants to level that has no risks to consumer health, and the need of recyclers to provide a challenge test or surrogate contaminant test in order demonstrate that their recycling process can sufficiently remove contaminants. 

Thailand - Regulatory LandscapeThe amendment of the Notification has been subjected to public hearing, and its finalization is expected by end of March 2022.

7.2 References

1. Microsoft Word - Notification of Ministry of Public Health no.295_Packaging_ rev1.doc (moph.go.th)