Thailand boosts economy with overseas workers
Thailand has seen a significant boost in its economy, with over 55,000 workers sent abroad during the 2024 fiscal year, resulting in more than 270 billion baht added to their families’ incomes.
Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn visited 364 Thai workers yesterday, October 11, who were undergoing pre-departure training before heading to Taiwan, Israel, and Japan. Among these workers, 321 are bound for Taiwan to take up positions in electronics and metal manufacturing, 39 will travel to Israel for construction roles such as carpenters and tilers, and four will move to Japan for caregiving jobs. These individuals will be sent through employment agencies.
Phiphat encouraged the workers to perform their duties responsibly, adhere to the laws and customs of the host countries, avoid illegal activities, and plan their savings to ensure financial security upon their return.
The Labour Ministry’s Department of Employment (DoE) conducts training for workers before their departure to ensure they understand procedures, employment contracts, working conditions, and the culture of their destination countries.
Phiphat stated that the ministry aims to send 100,000 Thai workers abroad in the 2025 fiscal year to enhance income stability and improve quality of life. He noted that workers are expected to return with knowledge and experience that will contribute to the development of their communities and the country.
“The goal is to increase this number by 200,000 per year over the next five years, generating at least 200 billion baht in revenue annually. This will help offset the 600 billion baht lost annually due to foreign labour employment.”
The ministry is also working to start exporting Thai labour to European countries like Italy, which offer higher wages.
DoE director-general Somchai Morakotsriwan highlighted that there are currently 144,617 Thai workers employed in 134 countries, with the top five destinations being Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Israel, and Malaysia.
In the 2024 fiscal year, 55,456 workers were sent abroad, generating a total of 270.22 billion baht in remittances, reported Bangkok Post.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Thai News highlights over 55,000 Thai workers abroad in 2024, boosting the economy with 270 billion baht, as the Labour Ministry aims to send 100,000 workers annually by 2025. (read more)
- MOL GO Thailand reports on the resumption of Thai workers to Israel, emphasizing safety protocols, training, and a goal to deploy 10,000 workers by the end of the year. (read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why is Thailand focusing on sending more workers abroad?
To enhance income stability, improve quality of life, and develop communities through gained experience.
How might Thai workers’ experiences abroad benefit their home communities?
Returning workers bring back new skills and knowledge, fostering local development and economic growth.
What if Thailand successfully sends 200,000 workers abroad annually over the next five years?
This could generate at least 200 billion baht annually, offsetting losses from foreign labour employment.
How does pre-departure training prepare Thai workers for their overseas roles?
Training ensures workers understand employment procedures, contracts, working conditions, and cultural norms of their destination countries.
What are the potential long-term impacts on Thailand’s economy by increasing overseas labour?
Enhanced remittances, improved individual financial stability, and overall economic growth through skill and knowledge transfer.
