Rayong: Xin Ke Yuan has received the green light to reopen after steel inspections confirmed that the materials meet the required standards. The Minister of Industry detailed the developments in Parliament, emphasizing the factory's compliance with standards following previous concerns over substandard steel.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Krit Silpachai, an MP for Rayong from the People's Party, raised an urgent question to Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, the Minister of Industry. This inquiry focused on the Ministry's decision to permit the reopening of the Xin Ke Yuan factory despite earlier revelations of substandard SKY steel used in the collapsed State Audit Office building and other structures nationwide. Mr. Krit sought clarification on the improvements mandated by the Department of Industrial Works and whether the factory had fully complied, specifically regarding the molten steel furnace, to guarantee the steel's quality for consumers.
Mr. Varawut explained that under the Factory Act, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry holds the authority to order the closure of a non-compliant factory. Once resolved, the Secretary considers reopening permissions. He thanked Mr. Krit for his inquiry, which enabled further investigation and action. The Minister clarified that Xin Ke Yuan had addressed the dust issue, previously exceeding standards, which led to its closure. Inspections verified that the air pollution control and steel quality met standards, with reports indicating compliance with the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TIS).
Mr. Varawut confirmed that the Department of Industrial Works, alongside the TISI, would enhance inspection standards for all steel factories in Thailand. Random inspections will occur twice monthly across various locations to ensure safety and compliance. Additionally, the TISI will set standards for scrap steel selection, molten steel composition, and processes to ensure quality.
Mr. Krit also questioned the inspection process for steel smelting furnaces, expressing concerns over discrepancies in past inspections and the issue of excessive red dust. Mr. Varawut responded by stating that more frequent inspections would be conducted, inviting Mr. Krit to participate for accuracy. He further clarified that an investigation by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) found no evidence of illicit red dust activities, concluding that dust levels were within production capacities.
Addressing the potential opening of a second Xin Ke Yuan branch for IF steel production, Mr. Krit raised concerns about the impact on the Thai steel industry. Mr. Varawut assured that factory inspections are thorough and adhere to standards, with measures in place to address substandard production. He emphasized that any expansion must meet strict standards, and new technology, such as Green Steel, will be considered to maintain quality and compliance with Thai Industrial Standards.