Thailand’s accelerated pursuit of accession to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea’s (UNCLOS) Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement represents a potentially transformative shift in its approach to marine resource management, driven by geopolitical considerations, economic opportunities, and a recognition of the escalating pressures on its coastal ecosystems. The Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs’s chairing of the inaugural Committee to drive Thailand’s Accession to the BBNJ Agreement on 20 November 2025, and subsequent decisions regarding the establishment of sub-committees, highlights a calculated and urgent strategy. This move, occurring amidst the formal ratification of the agreement by 60 states, signals a determined effort to secure a seat at the table in the governance of the world’s oceans – a realm increasingly contested by powerful actors.
The BBNJ Agreement, which seeks to regulate activities relating to marine genetic resources (MGRs) in areas beyond national jurisdiction, offers Thailand a complex set of benefits. These include participation in the Conference of the Parties (COP), access to the Agreement’s financial mechanisms, and crucially, technical assistance and capacity-building support. As Dr. Anupong Chawla, Director of the Marine Science Center at Chulalongkorn University, noted, “Thailand’s belated but decisive engagement reflects a growing understanding that the equitable governance of the high seas is no longer a distant concern, but a core element of national security and sustainable development.” The agreement’s framework – encompassing MGRs, Area Based Management Tools, Environmental Impact Assessments, and Capacity Building – directly addresses challenges facing Thailand’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and the vast, largely unexplored areas surrounding it. The push for accession is further fueled by the agreement’s potential to unlock significant economic value from MGRs, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and sustainable aquaculture.
Historically, Thailand’s approach to marine resource management has been characterized by a predominantly state-led model, often resulting in overexploitation and inadequate enforcement. The 1982 Marine Resources Act, while establishing a framework for resource management, has been criticized for its lack of robust environmental safeguards and limited stakeholder participation. The BBNJ Agreement offers a fundamental restructuring, placing a greater emphasis on scientific data sharing, collaborative research, and the fair distribution of benefits derived from marine genetic resources. “Thailand’s engagement isn’t simply about securing access to the agreement’s provisions,” explained Dr. Sombun Thongthong, a specialist in international maritime law at Thammasat University. “It’s about reshaping the rules of the game, ensuring Thailand’s voice is heard in shaping global standards for ocean conservation.”
The timing of Thailand’s push is particularly significant. The formal entry into force of the BBNJ Agreement on 17 January 2026, following the ratification of 60 nations, dramatically increases the urgency. Moreover, the competitive landscape is intensifying. Major maritime powers, including the European Union, China, and the United States, are actively pursuing their own strategies within the framework of the BBNJ Agreement. Thailand’s successful accession, supported by robust technical capacity and a clear strategic vision, will be vital to safeguarding its interests. The sub-committees established – focused on translation and legal analysis – represent a crucial first step. However, challenges remain. Thailand’s limited capacity in marine science and technology, coupled with bureaucratic hurdles, could impede its ability to fully leverage the agreement’s provisions. The success of the effort hinges on securing targeted support from international partners, particularly in areas such as research infrastructure and technical training.
Looking ahead, over the next six months, Thailand will likely intensify its diplomatic efforts, engaging with key stakeholders to secure commitments for technical assistance and capacity-building. Furthermore, the sub-committees will need to rapidly produce actionable legal frameworks to comply with the BBNJ Agreement’s requirements. Over the longer term, (5-10 years), Thailand’s participation could foster a more sustainable and equitable approach to marine resource management, boosting its blue economy and bolstering its geopolitical influence in the Asia-Pacific region. However, without sustained investment and political will, Thailand risks falling behind other nations in adapting to the evolving landscape of ocean governance. The establishment of a robust monitoring and enforcement mechanism, aligned with international best practices, will be essential to ensure Thailand’s compliance and maximize the benefits derived from the BBNJ Agreement.
The decision to prioritize the BBNJ agreement reflects a fundamental reassessment of Thailand’s strategic priorities. It represents a calculated gamble, betting on its ability to integrate successfully into a complex and evolving international system. The ultimate success of this strategy will not only determine the future of Thailand’s marine resources, but also potentially shape the trajectory of ocean governance globally – a dynamic arena of intense competition and collaboration.