“Trinuch” is preparing to propose a plan to the Cabinet regarding the management of Cambodian workers whose terms have expired. The Cabinet is in the process of reviewing whether to deport them or extend the employment terms for workers from neighboring countries to fill the gap, as the agricultural sector may face impacts.
According to Thai News Agency, at Government House, Ms. Trinuch Thienthong, the Minister of Labor, discussed the labor situation in Thailand, particularly concerning Cambodian workers in the agricultural sector. She mentioned that Thailand is already seeking replacement workers from countries like Burma, Laos, or Vietnam. The Cabinet meeting will discuss guidelines for managing this labor transition.
When questioned about the potential deportation of Cambodian workers currently in Thailand, Ms. Trinuch indicated that the issue involves multiple parties, especially the security sector, necessitating Cabinet-level discussions. She assured that Thailand is actively looking for replacemen
t workers and is expediting work permit extensions for workers from Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar, who constitute a significant portion of the workforce in Thailand. She acknowledged the potential impact on the agricultural sector, which heavily relies on Cambodian workers.
Ms. Trinuch revealed that approximately 100,000 Cambodian workers are in Thailand, with around 90,000 being legal workers whose permits have expired. The closure of border checkpoints has left these workers unable to return home, stranding them in Thailand.
When asked about the deportation prospects for Cambodian workers with expired ID cards, Ms. Trinuch emphasized the need for consultation with relevant agencies, particularly in the security sector.
Regarding the potential effects on the agricultural, fishing, and industrial sectors, Ms. Trinuch noted that Cambodian workers are mainly employed in agriculture, particularly in sugarcane cutting, as the fishing sector rarely employs them.
The Prime Minister has acknowledged these chall
enges and has previously implemented support measures, including releasing over 40,000 workers from shelters and expediting the release of Myanmar and Vietnamese workers with expired or near-expiration work permits to replace Cambodian workers.
Ms. Trinuch added that the skill levels of replacement workers might differ, but given security and public concerns, the issue requires careful evaluation.