Why Thailand for ferrous scrap in 2026
Thailand is a net exporter of processed ferrous scrap (HS 7204) to steel mills across South and Southeast Asia — India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Bangkok–Rayong industrial belts generate consistent shredded and HMS volumes, and Laem Chabang / Map Ta Phut give short lay-time to Chennai (10–12 days) and Chittagong (~14 days).
Grades Thai yards routinely ship
| Grade | ISRI code | Typical spec | Common use |
|---|---|---|---|
| HMS 1&2 (80:20) | 200-206 | ≥6mm, mixed heavy melt | EAF / induction furnaces |
| Shredded | 210-211 | Fragmentized <200mm, <0.5% NF | EAF billet |
| Bonus / P&S | 231-232 | Plate & structural clean | Rebar mills |
| Turnings | 218-220 | Cast iron / steel borings | Foundries |
Licensing & compliance (2026)
- DIW (Department of Industrial Works) waste-import controls — Thailand banned imported mixed metal scrap in 2025, but export of domestic scrap is permitted with commercial invoice + Certificate of Origin (Form D for ASEAN, Form AI for India).
- Radiation certificate (mandatory for India, Bangladesh, Vietnam buyers) — every container scanned at origin.
- SGS / Cotecna PSI required by most South Asian mills.
Landed-cost example: 500 MT shredded, Laem Chabang → Chennai
- FOB Laem Chabang: USD 385/MT
- Ocean freight (bulk container): USD 42/MT
- Insurance + PSI + radiation cert: USD 6/MT
- CIF Chennai ≈ USD 433/MT — competitive vs Dubai-origin at USD 445–460/MT.
How TUSKO helps mills buy Thai scrap safely
We verify yard licenses, witness loading, arrange radiation + PSI, and consolidate documentation so your L/C or TT is released against clean papers. See our 7-step supplier verification and landed-cost calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can foreign buyers import Thai scrap without a local agent?
Technically yes, but Thai yards prefer working through licensed exporters. TUSKO acts as your on-the-ground consolidator so payment risk stays with a Thai-registered entity you can audit.
Is HS 7204 subject to export duty in Thailand?
No export duty on 7204 as of 2026, but a 0% VAT export declaration and Form D/AI are required for duty relief at destination.
What's the minimum viable shipment?
One 40-ft container ≈ 27 MT. Bulk vessels start at 3,000 MT. Most mills book 500–1,500 MT trial lots.
How do I avoid contaminated loads?
Insist on pre-loading photos, radiation scan per container, and third-party PSI (SGS/Cotecna). TUSKO includes all three in every shipment.