Thailand has approved a new labour cooperation framework with Sri Lanka that could pave the way for the recruitment of up to 10,000 Sri Lankan workers, as the two countries move to establish a formal and regulated channel for labour migration.
The Thai Cabinet has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Labour Cooperation and an Agreement on the Employment of Sri Lankan Workers in Thailand, aimed at addressing labour shortages while strengthening protections for migrant workers.
The agreements follow several years of negotiations between the two countries and are expected to provide Thai employers with access to workers from Sri Lanka, particularly in sectors facing labour shortages.
According to the framework, the recruitment process will be subject to clear procedures covering worker selection, health examinations, employment contracts, work permits and repatriation.
Workers will be required to sign employment contracts directly with their employers before travelling to Thailand. The contracts must clearly specify the number of workers required, qualifications, type of employment, remuneration and other conditions.
Sri Lankan workers will also be required to undergo health examinations and obtain health insurance as stipulated by Thai law before commencing employment.
Once in Thailand, workers must obtain the appropriate work permits and will be permitted to work only for the authorised employer and in the occupation specified in their work authorisation.
Employment contracts will initially be valid for two years, with the possibility of an extension of up to a further two years. At the conclusion of employment, employers will be responsible for the costs associated with repatriating workers to Sri Lanka.
The labour cooperation MoU will also establish mechanisms for exchanging information on labour markets, employment laws and regulations, skills development and productivity. The two countries are expected to strengthen information-sharing mechanisms to combat illegal recruitment and human trafficking.
A key principle of the agreement is non-discrimination, with Sri Lankan workers employed under the framework entitled to protection under Thai labour law on the same basis as local workers. They will also be entitled to the remuneration and benefits stipulated in their employment contracts and have access to legal mechanisms to resolve employment disputes.
The Sri Lankan Cabinet has separately approved the conclusion of the proposed labour cooperation MoU and employment agreement with Thailand for a five-year period.
The two governments expect the framework to create a transparent and efficient system for the recruitment and deployment of Sri Lankan workers, while safeguarding their legal rights, welfare and security.
The arrangement is also intended to reduce reliance on illegal recruitment channels and minimise the risk of human trafficking and worker exploitation, while helping Thai industries and businesses address persistent labour shortages.
The approval, however, represents the establishment of the bilateral framework rather than the immediate deployment of all 10,000 workers. Further implementation arrangements, including recruitment procedures, eligible occupations and specific job opportunities, will need to be established by the relevant authorities.
– with Agencies inputs --
