Akara, Thailand’s only gold and silver mine operator, together with the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (Public Organization) (GIT), MTS Refinery and Manufacturing Company Limited, and Chulalongkorn University hosted a knowledge-sharing forum titled “Responsible Mining for Growth: Advancing Global Standards and Carbon Credit Opportunities through Tailings Innovation.”

Held on 18 November 2025 at the InterContinental Bangkok, the forum brought together representatives from government agencies, academia, and the private sector to exchange insights on advancing Thailand’s gold industry to meet international standards, while exploring new opportunities and innovations in sustainable mining and the circular economy.

As the operator of the Chatree Gold Mine, Akara’s operations contribute over 7.7 billion baht to Thailand’s economy each year and create more than 1,000 direct and indirect jobs across three key provinces near the mine. Despite being the country’s sole gold producer, Akara ranks among the top five contributors of mining royalties nationwide, highlighting the gold sector’s vital role in driving Thailand’s economy.

(Mr. Cherdsak Utha-aroon, General Manager – Sustainability, Akara Resources Public Company Limited)

Mr. Cherdsak Utha-aroon, General Manager of Sustainability at Akara, said: “Building a sustainable future for Thailand’s gold industry requires collaboration across the entire value chain, from upstream to midstream to downstream. This forum provides an important opportunity for all stakeholders to align on standards and shared goals for responsible growth, ensuring that Thai gold continues to generate lasting economic and social value for the country.”

(Mr. Sumed Prasongpongcha,i Director General, The Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (Public Organization))

One of the key topics discussed was the need to establish robust standards and transparency within Thailand’s gold industry. The Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT) outlined its vision for the “Thai Responsible Gold Ecosystem” framework, which aims to elevate the Thai gold industry to meet international benchmarks through a unified national standard. The standardized framework will enhance transparency and trust in Thai gold, moving the sector from mere compliance toward global leadership in sustainable gold standards.

Akara, as a key upstream operator in Thailand’s gold industry, fully supports this framework and serves as a model for responsible mining, demonstrating transparent operations, adherence to international standards, and a strong commitment to community development and the continuous creation of economic value for downstream private sector stakeholders.

(Mr. Keeradit Hirunyasiri, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer, MTS Refinery & Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (or Mae Thong Suk))

MTS Gold, Thailand’s first gold trader to have received Carbon Footprint certification for its products, highlighted its approach to aligning industry practices with the country’s environmental and sustainability goals. The company views the “Green Gold” concept as a key driver for the future of Thailand’s gold sector, focusing on mitigating environmental impact across at every stage of the value chain, from mining and refining to manufacturing and retail.

This approach enhances the value of Thai gold as an ethical and sustainable investment, appealing to ESG-focused investors and environmentally conscious consumers seeking products that balance economic value with social and environment responsibility throughout the value chain. It also strengthens Thailand’s reputation and competitiveness in the global market while supporting the country’s broader transition toward a green economy.

MTS Gold also noted the growing momentum of Thailand’s silver market, which has become increasingly active in recent years. The company reported average trading volumes of one ton per week, reflecting silver’s rising popularity as a valuable precious metal alongside gold.

(Dr. Peet Homchuen, Lecturer, Department of Mining and Petroleum Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University)

From the academic perspective, a representative from Chulalongkorn University showcased ongoing research to transform mine tailings, a by-product of gold and silver extraction, into innovative materials such as microbe-based construction blocks that are durable, safe, and environmentally sustainable. These developments not only reduce mining waste but also serve as a model for advancing a circular economy. Current studies are also exploring the use of tailings as carbon-capture materials in construction, which could generate additional carbon credits for Thailand in the future.

The forum attracted strong participation from across public, private, and academic sectors, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing the Thailand’s responsible gold industry. It demonstrated Akara’s role as both a key contributor to the national economy and a leader in responsible mining. By emphasizing transparency, collaboration, and innovation, the company aims to play a pivotal role in supporting Thailand’s transition toward a sustainable, low-carbon, and inclusive green economy.