Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

 

Thailand has suspended the renewal of work permits for Cambodian labourers following heightened tensions along the Thai–Cambodian border. The move came after a Thai soldier was injured by what officials described as a newly planted landmine, prompting Bangkok to pause implementation of a recently signed peace declaration between the two nations.

 

Labour Minister Treenuch Thienthong announced the decision after Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting on 11 November, confirming that renewals for Cambodian workers were temporarily halted while the process for migrants from Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar would continue as normal. She said the ministry is now conducting a detailed review of Cambodian nationals working in Thailand, both legally and illegally, to coordinate policy with security agencies.

 

Earlier records from August estimated around 100,000 Cambodians in the Thai workforce, but officials believe the actual figure may have changed significantly. “Given the fragile situation, Cambodian workers will be reviewed separately,” Treenuch said. “We must first obtain accurate numbers before deciding on appropriate measures. For now, those with valid work permits can continue working as usual. There are no expulsion orders.”

 

The ministry is also expediting registration for workers from neighbouring countries to address potential shortages in sectors reliant on Cambodian labour, such as manufacturing and seafood processing. Additionally, discussions are under way to expand labour import agreements with countries including Sri Lanka and Bangladesh to ensure continued economic stability.

 

Labour Permanent Secretary Wannapong Kotcharak said all provincial offices have been instructed to verify how many Cambodian workers remain in Thailand, noting that many may have already returned home. The move follows a directive from the National Security Council (NSC) to suspend implementation of the Kuala Lumpur peace statement with Cambodia “indefinitely” until tensions ease.

 

The Defence Ministry has been ordered to strengthen border security and continue mine clearance operations, while the Foreign Ministry is lodging diplomatic protests and briefing international observers on Thailand’s position. The developments mark a sharp escalation in diplomatic and security concerns between the two neighbouring countries.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Thailand has frozen the renewal of Cambodian worker permits after a border landmine injury.

• The Labour Ministry is verifying the exact number of Cambodian nationals currently employed in Thailand.

• Border security has been reinforced as diplomatic protests are lodged with Cambodia.

 

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  Adapted  by  Asean  Now from Khaosod 2025-11-12

 

 

 

 

Tightening the screws a little 🤣

I see Anutin is sporting a military outfit with parachuting wings badge, were those earned, or is he playing the tough guy?

Sure, because Cambodian migrant labourers hold a lot of sway with their current regime.  Yes, foreign remissions do enter the equation.  It won't last long though because the Thai corporate masters need those foreign slaves.