File photo for reference only

 

The People's Party (PP) raises alarms over economic disruptions from the exodus of Cambodian workers, threatening vital sectors like agriculture and construction.

 

In a briefing held by PP list-MP and deputy leader Rangsiman Rome, significant concerns were voiced over the mass departure of Cambodian workers from Thailand. Speaking after the House Committee on National Security's meeting, Mr Rangsiman noted the severe impact on production sectors, particularly agriculture and construction.

 

With only about 10% of the estimated 300,000 Cambodian migrants remaining in Thailand, the departure's ramifications are profound. The true number may be even higher when factoring in undocumented workers. Such a sharp decline could severely impact the economy, especially if solutions are not swiftly implemented.

 

Mr Rangsiman emphasised that beyond unresolved tensions from the Thai-Cambodian conflict, the economic fallout is alarming. The border areas may face long-term damage if recovery efforts are delayed, making the shortage of migrant workers an urgent issue.

 

In response, the Labour Ministry is considering the recruitment of workers from Sri Lanka, although discussions on its necessity are still ongoing. Mr Rangsiman also highlighted the troubling issue of corruption in the recruiting process, revealing that his committee possesses the names of companies allegedly involved in unethical practices, including bribery for faster approvals.

 

To address the burgeoning labour crisis, the Thai cabinet has recently approved measures aimed at alleviating the shortage. Employers can now apply for new permits for Cambodian, Laotian, and Myanmar workers whose permits expired on 13 February and were not renewed. Additionally, undocumented migrants who entered prior to the resolution are eligible for permits.

 

Furthermore, the cabinet has greenlit a pilot programme to introduce 10,000 Sri Lankan workers on two-year contracts, potentially extendable, to fill the void left by departed Cambodians. Future plans also include recruiting from Nepal, Bangladesh, Indonesia, and the Philippines to safeguard Thailand's grassroots economy and maintain socio-economic stability.

 

The swift action illustrates the gravity of the situation, as Thailand seeks to bolster its workforce and stave off economic distress. With key sectors at risk, these measures aim to provide a temporary buffer while long-term solutions are explored. The government's initiatives reflect a balancing act between immediate needs and strategic future planning, ensuring the country remains resilient in the face of these challenges.

 

As the situation evolves, monitoring will continue to assess the effectiveness of these measures and their impact on Thailand's economic landscape. The resolution of this complex issue is crucial not just for economic stability but for the socio-economic fabric of the nation.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-08-21

 

15 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

The People's Party (PP) raises alarms over economic disruptions from the exodus of Cambodian workers, threatening vital sectors like agriculture and construction.

Som Nam Na

19 minutes ago, hotchilli said:

Som Nam Na

 

 

Som nom na to the Cambodian workers who are earning nothing  -  or som nom na to the Thais who are struggling to find labour.

 

 

just checking to see where your Schadenfreude is directed.

 

Lot of Cambodian labour is used around here, northern Chantaburi, especially at fruit picking time. Very good lamyai (longan) crop this season most of which comes off October to February. Typically you see pick ups full of them ferrying around and staying in tin shanties. Lately I’ve noticed quite a few differences in the passengers, either Lao or Burmese, the Khmer women often wear pajamas so it’s easily seen

Thailand will likely experience the same rising food costs, and for the same reasons, as the U.S.  For whatever reason, if your field hands leave, the food rots on the ground, and the prices rise.

When narcissists in power hunger for more and are willing to sacrifice others and longstanding friendly relations for their own benefit, this is what happens. Parallels developments elsewhere and wouldn't be surprised if those are somewhat connected.

Just waiting for the inevitable coup so they can try to get back to "bidness as usual". Looks like they'll try a parliamentary coup first of course, wouldn't be surprised to see them slipping a certain someone who used to be military and a PM in through the back door.

 

Let's just make sure that gravy train keeps rolling! Whatever happens, don't let those who are voted for get into power and govern for the benefit of the country as a whole!

3 hours ago, hotandsticky said:

 

 

Som nom na to the Cambodian workers who are earning nothing  -  or som nom na to the Thais who are struggling to find labour.

 

 

just checking to see where your Schadenfreude is directed.

 

All the above

2 minutes ago, hotchilli said:

All the above

 

 

That's fair......at least you ae not favouring one side..

Dont pi$$ the Burmese off, Phuket would grind to a halt, 

Maybe one day Thailand will need to treat their migrant workers with the respect they deserve for their hard work.

Why are necessary a lot of migrant workers?

In Thailand, are a lot of inactive persons.

They are clinging on the neck of a well paid bread winner.

They are not so demanding, satisfied on few.

They are missing workforce of the economy.

Very necessary to find a way, for mobilizing them

Is there a problem with hiring Thai workers to do the job.Why must it be Cambodian?

3 minutes ago, OldmanJ said:

Why must it be Cambodian?

Cambodians are cheap and put up with bad conditions.

Ohhh BOO HOO, cry us a river. Looks like the Cambos are more valuable than you thought ehhh ? OH wait thais are to good and above that kind of hard work? Yeah don't we all know it. 

Funny how this is all turning out when the shoe starts going on the other foot! Now TH is begging for slave labor. Karma lesson here. 

Thais are getting all pissy and hating on Khmers now ... then "OH BUT WAIT! COME PICK OUR CROPS". 

Retards.