On September 29, 2025, Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the new government’s policy to accelerate Thailand’s net-zero greenhouse gas emissions target from 2065 to 2050. The goal is to align with global trade standards and prevent Thailand from being excluded from international supply chains.
The SCB Economic Intelligence Center (EIC) described this as a “major transformation” and a “turning point” for Thai industries, noting that carbon reduction is now an economic necessity rather than a choice.
Industries expected to benefit include renewable energy, electric vehicles (EVs), recycling, biobased materials, and low-carbon fuels. In contrast, high-emission sectors such as oil, gas, fossil-fuel power, steel, cement, and conventional automobiles will face growing pressure from both international and domestic measures — including carbon taxes and emissions trading systems (ETS).
According to Kasikorn Research Center, Thailand must cut carbon emissions by an average of 10% per year, particularly in the industrial sector, which accounts for over 24% of national emissions. This will require rapid adoption of clean energy, waste management improvements, and investment in carbon capture technologies.
Analysts believe the Net Zero 2050 policy will strengthen Thailand’s competitiveness, attract investment, and serve as a key driver for businesses — especially SMEs — to adapt to the low-carbon economy. However, achieving this ambition will demand sustained collaboration between the public and private sectors.
