On November 18, 2025, at the Auditorium of the Thailand Science Park Convention Center, the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), under the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), organized a technical seminar titled ‘Getting Ready for PPWR… Amidst Uncertainty.’ The seminar sought to equip Thai entrepreneurs—particularly those in packaging production and export—by providing in-depth guidance on the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation), Regulation (EU) 2024/2516, the EU’s upcoming law on packaging and waste.
Associate Professor Toemsak Srikhirin, Director of the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC), formally welcomed representatives from government agencies, industry, universities, and professional organizations attending the seminar. He emphasized that the event was organized to support stakeholders in gaining a clearer understanding of the key provisions of the European Union’s new packaging regulation (PPWR), which will take effect next year and is expected to significantly impact Thai businesses across the supply chain. The participation of more than 570 attendees from over 270 organizations reflects the growing awareness and urgency surrounding the new regulations, which cover every stage—from packaging design and material selection to recycling and safety requirements, including restrictions on prohibited substances in food-contact packaging. He further noted that many organizations have already begun receiving compliance requests from their international business partners.
He also underscored that MTEC-NSTDA is ready to support the Thai industry by scholarly resources, practical guidelines, and evaluation tools, enabling entrepreneurs to prepare effectively for the new global market rules. He closed his remarks by expressing gratitude to all participants before formally inaugurating the seminar.
The seminar featured expert speakers from MTEC-NSTDA’s research teams, led by Dr. Nudjarin Ramangul, a specialist in Environment Research, and Dr. Witchuda Daud, a member of the Plastic Technology Research Team (PLTT) under the Advanced Polymer Technology Research Group (APT). They provided in-depth perspectives on critical issues throughout the day. One highlight was a lecture and live demonstration titled “Show Me the Evidence,” where the research team explained practical approaches to preparing Technical Documentation and the EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC). This session enabled entrepreneurs to gain a clear understanding of the technical proof required to ensure packaging compliance with PPWR standards in a direct and actionable way.
Additionally, the final session of the seminar featured a special discussion titled “Getting Through Together,” which created a forum for participants to exchange challenges and co-develop solutions alongside speakers and research teams. The session was designed to foster collaborative networks and establish a foundation for an enduring, sustainable partnership.
MTEC-NSTDA expressed its hope that this seminar would act as a strategic platform to support Thai entrepreneurs in adapting and elevating their packaging production standards to meet international regulations, while enhancing their global competitiveness with greater confidence and resilience.
