Biosafety and biosecurity law in Thailand: From legislation to practice

Abstract

Thailand has continuously established biosafety and security laws since 1932. The present law, the Pathogens and Animal Toxins Act 2015, was established for the controlled production, possession, sales, import, export, and transit of pathogens and animal toxins. The law is in accordance with the current world situation—that is, outbreaks of emerging and re-emerging diseases and the development of modern biotechnology, such as genetic modification of pathogens with the potential for beneficial or harmful use. The principles of the pathogen control measures of Thai law are similar to those of foreign laws in countries such as Canada, the United States, Singapore, and the People’s Republic of China. Control measures are based on the risk levels of pathogens to humans, animals, and the environment. This review briefly presents details of the law’s development in Thailand. Details are given in comparison with those of other countries; the export and import of pathogens and animal toxins according to EU export controls are also discussed. The practice and experience of applying the law in Thailand are also presented. Dissemination of enforcement details will ensure effective legal biosafety and biosecurity control measures in Thailand. This may be useful for establishing a law involving regulatory controls for biosafety and biosecurity.