Thailand’s Cabinet is set to consider new regulations that would require power banks, lithium batteries and nickel-based batteries sold in the country to meet mandatory Thai Industrial Standards (TIS) certification before reaching consumers. The proposal, prepared by the Industry Ministry, aims to improve product safety following repeated incidents involving batteries catching fire or exploding, causing injuries and property damage. If approved, the new rules are expected to come into force by the middle of 2027 after a transition period for manufacturers and importers. New safety checks before products reach the market Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa said he will submit a draft ministerial regulation to the Cabinet designating nickel-based batteries, lithium-based batteries and power banks as controlled products. Under the proposal, any such products manufactured, imported or sold in Thailand would have to receive TIS certification before they could be legally marketed. The ministry says the move reflects the growing use of rechargeable batteries in mobile phones, laptops, power banks and other portable electronic devices, while updating Thailand’s regulations to match current technology and international safety practices. The revised standards are based on the internationally recognised IEC 62133 standard and separate requirements for different battery types. They include TIS 62133 Part 1-2022 for nickel-based batteries and TIS 62133 Part 2-2022 for lithium-based batteries. The ministry also plans to update TIS 2879-2024, which covers power banks, to align the overall framework. What it means for consumers and foreigners For foreigners living in or visiting Thailand, the proposed changes are unlikely to affect day-to-day use of existing devices, but they should improve confidence when buying new power banks from Thai retailers in the future. Once the regulations take effect, consumers should expect certified products to carry clearer safety information and warning labels. The tougher standards will also require products to pass tests covering over-discharge protection, vibration resistance, high-temperature tolerance and heat generated during repeated charging. Varawut said businesses would be given time to adapt their production, import procedures and licensing arrangements. Existing licence holders would also be able to apply for extensions where necessary, although these would not extend beyond one year after the new standards come into force. Raising standards across the industry The Industry Ministry believes the new rules will reduce the number of substandard products on the market while encouraging manufacturers and importers to upgrade production processes to international standards. Officials also expect the measures to strengthen Thailand’s battery, electronics and future energy supply chains, improve confidence in Thai-made products and reduce the long-term costs associated with accidents caused by poor-quality batteries. The ministry said it will step up public information campaigns, assist businesses with the transition and increase inspections to prevent low-quality products from entering the Thai market. Join the discussion? 28 July 2026
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