OPINION

Solving Thailand's migrant worker retention crisis

News, Published on 24/02/2025

» Thailand's border provinces are facing an economic contradiction. Despite government efforts to train and integrate migrant workers, the reality is stark: as soon as these workers gain skills, they leave. The cycle is predictable -- low wages, limited career paths and poor labour protections push them towards Bangkok and the Eastern Economic Corridor, where opportunities are greater, wages are fairer, and oversight is stronger. Instead of reaping the benefits of their workforce investments, border provinces are left with an ageing population, unstable industries and a persistent labour shortage.