Israel boosts Thai worker quota to 21,000 amid labour shortages
Israel has decided to increase the number of Thai workers in its agriculture and construction sectors to 21,000 positions this year, as announced by Labour Minister Rabbi Yoav Ben Tzur.
During an official visit to Thailand concluding today, Ben Tzur addressed the press at the Israeli Embassy. He, along with Thai Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, signed a memorandum of understanding on Tuesday to expand the labour quota, allowing 13,000 Thai workers in agriculture and 8,500 in construction.
Israel also intends to integrate Thai workers into the service industry, including hotels, restaurants, and nursing care.
Ben Tzur praised Thai workers as diligent, patient, and skilled, noting that Israeli employers are eager to hire more. He assured that the Israeli government guarantees the safety and legal benefits for Thai workers.
Following the October 7 Hamas attack in 2023, Israel enforced a ban on Palestinian labourers, resulting in the departure of approximately 150,000 workers.
Consequently, Israel is seeking labourers from various countries to aid in rebuilding infrastructure and businesses.
Ben Tzur mentioned Israel’s aim to recruit about 300,000 workers from Cambodia, Mexico, and Thailand. He expressed a desire to employ up to 200,000 Thai workers across several sectors, including construction, hospitality, and elderly care.
“We are fond of Thai labourers due to their high skill level. If we cannot achieve the 200,000 target, we might consider other nations too.”
Concerning the safety of Thai workers amidst ongoing conflict, Ben Tzur explained that most of the hostilities are concentrated near Israel’s northern and southern borders.
Thai workers will be stationed in designated safe zones in the central region, with heightened military security to contain the conflict. Israeli employers have also constructed bunkers near workplaces to enhance safety, reported Bangkok Post.
“We assure you there is no need for concern about potential issues. We treat Thai labourers as family and will continue to do so.”
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