"In the past, the plastics sector expanded 1-2% annually, but this trend is expected to become a contraction in the future," Kriengsak said.

He went on to say other countries are also facing pressure to reduce plastic use as environmental concerns gain traction.

He stated that the strategy that he is trying to support is to convert bioresin made from sugar into finished and semi-finished plastic products.

"We want to try to maximize the value chain of biopolymers but currently have to accept that Total Corbion is mainly exporting to EU and other countries,” he said.

“The institute is working with small and medium-scale processors to support them in developing bioplastics conversion expertise.