Over 1,000 Myanmar workers at a poultry processing factory in Chonburi, Thailand, have reported being subjected to excessive fee collections under the guise of ‘smart cards,’ with amounts reaching up to 20,000 baht. According to worker testimonies provided to Yangon Modern News, the factory has been implementing discriminatory practices and violating workers’ rights through these excessive fee collections.
Workers have revealed that while other factories in the area typically charge around 7,500 baht for smart card fees, this particular factory demands up to 20,000 baht. Furthermore, workers are unable to recover these fees even if they leave their employment. The factory also demands additional costs of up to 19,000 baht, with management explicitly stating that those who cannot pay should not work there. This has created a situation where workers are effectively trapped in their employment, unable to leave without losing substantial amounts of money.
The factory management has been accused of manipulating inspections by government authorities. When labor inspectors visit the facility, only workers close to management are selected to speak with officials, and they are instructed to provide false information about working conditions, including claims about proper food provision and benefits. The situation is further complicated by the role of translators, who are reported to deliberately ignore workers’ complaints about healthcare access and other issues. Workers are also being charged regular fees of 300 baht for various purposes, though they report receiving no benefits from these payments. The workers find themselves in a difficult position, unable to seek help due to fear of losing their deposits and employment, while continuing to face ongoing exploitation and unfair treatment.
