Scores of Thai exporters sign on to anti-WMD controls

 

Eighty-two Thai companies are ensuring their export will not be used for nefarious purposes by launching internal compliance programs on ‘dual-use’ items for weapons of mass destruction, following a Thai law passed in line with United Nations Resolutions.

Dual-use items are products manufactured for normal consumer or industrial purposes, but that could also be used in building a weapon of mass destruction (WMD). These span a range of products from fertilizers and chemicals to lasers, electronics and avionics equipment.

The Thai law, which came into effect last year, is in compliance with United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution No.1540 from 2004, and related resolutions requesting that member states establish domestic controls to prevent the proliferation of WMD. They include the control of related materials, such as dual-use items (DUIs) that could be assembled, developed, enhanced or treated to become part of WMD.

“Although Thailand is not a key exporter of DUI, we cannot deny that the country’s geographic location makes it appropriate for re-export, transit, and transshipment of products, as well as a lot of border trade,” said Dhadchyarbhon Abhimontejchbud, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade, Ministry of Commerce.

“It is important that entrepreneurs be concerned about their buyers and the destinations of their products’ end-users,” said Dhadchyarbhon.

He added that his department was encouraging the private sector to set up compliance programs meeting international standards and to join the compliance network to collaborate with government agencies that are involved in this issue.

Photo courtesy of https://www.dft.go.th/