Australia Backs Thailand on Mekong Cross-Border Water Pollution

Thailand has secured support from Australia to tackle cross-border water pollution affecting rivers linked to the Mekong basin, with a focus on contamination flowing from mining activities in Myanmar. On 20 April 2026, Pollution Control Department chief Surin Worakittharom said the government is prioritising measures to prevent and resolve transboundary pollution impacting key waterways. These include the Kok, Sai, Ruak, Mekong, Salween and Kraburi rivers, where water quality and ecosystems have been affected.

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The Thai government is pursuing a multi-pronged approach, including monitoring, source control, international negotiations and partnerships with other countries. The aim is to achieve concrete and sustainable solutions that restore water quality and protect ecosystems relied upon by local communities. Authorities have highlighted arsenic contamination linked to mining operations as a particular concern in surface water sources.

Recent talks between the Pollution Control Department and the Australian Embassy in Thailand focused on strengthening regional cooperation. Participants included First Secretary Sibella Stern, senior programme manager Dr Rattamanee Ongskul from the embassy’s development division and representatives from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The discussions were aimed at advancing collaborative frameworks to address transboundary water pollution more effectively.

Australia, through the Australian Water Partnership (AWP), has offered technical support to enhance Thailand’s capacity to prevent, monitor and manage water pollution. This includes providing Australian experts and jointly developing Terms of Reference tailored to Thailand’s needs. The initiative is intended to build long-term capability and improve environmental governance in affected regions.

Officials stressed that international cooperation is essential to resolving cross-border pollution, particularly where upstream activities in neighbouring countries affect downstream water quality. The collaboration is also expected to support a transition towards more responsible industrial practices in the region, improving environmental outcomes and public health.

Thaitabloid reported that Thailand plans to hold further meetings involving the Office of the National Water Resources and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to refine project proposals and expand their scope. The next phase will focus on aligning technical assistance with national priorities and ensuring comprehensive coverage of affected river systems.

Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 21 Apr 2026