The Ministry of Industry is transforming factory oversight into Data-Driven Regulation, using data and digital technology to assess risks and identify irregularities, enabling more targeted and effective inspections.

One of the key tools is i-Auditor, a digital system that enables officials to record inspection results, attach evidence, prepare reports, and systematically track corrective actions. The system helps reduce paperwork and promotes greater consistency in factory inspections.

Factories Violating Pollution Standards May Face Immediate Shutdowns

A key change is the strengthened enforcement of regulations against factories that release pollutants above prescribed standards or fail to properly manage industrial waste.

In the past, when a factory caused pollution by discharging wastewater or air pollutants beyond legal limits, officials from the Department of Industrial Works (DIW) could order the factory to take corrective action within a specified period under the first paragraph of Section 37 of the Factory Act.

Under the new proactive regulatory approach, the use of data and the i-Auditor system will enable officials to assess risks and monitor issues more quickly. Factories that violate pollution control requirements may be ordered to suspend or shut down operations immediately, subject to the powers and conditions prescribed by law.

2026 Performance

In 2026, 767 factories were found to have violated the law, resulting in 131 suspension orders, 636 corrective action orders, and 391 legal proceedings.

The enhancement of i-Auditor under the ONE MIND policy is an important step toward developing a factory oversight system that is faster, more transparent, and traceable. It also supports equal compliance with legal requirements and contributes to raising Thailand’s industrial standards sustainably.

Source: The Nation, August 16, 2026, and the Ministry of Industry

Data from : https://www.thaigov.go.th/th/news/168308

: https://www.nationthailand.com/business/economy/40069853