Former USDP MP Bu Lat Hla Swe has called on the military via his social media to prevent Myanmar citizens from working in Thailand, citing concerns about potential shortages of youth for mandatory military service. This comes after Cambodia recalled its workers from Thailand due to border conflicts between the two countries. Approximately 700,000 Cambodian workers have returned home from Thailand, creating a significant labor shortage in the Thai job market. Bu Lat Hla Swe expressed concern that Thailand would likely recruit Myanmar workers to fill these vacancies, potentially leading to hundreds of thousands of Myanmar citizens leaving the country.
The former MP warned that this mass exodus could create serious problems for military recruitment and domestic labor availability in Myanmar. He urged the military to implement strict controls and restrictions on all border crossings, airports, and seaports that could serve as exit points to Thailand. According to Thai media reports, the departure of over 800,000 Cambodian workers has caused severe labor shortages in Bangkok’s industrial zones and construction sites. Thai business owners have begun replacing Cambodian workers with Myanmar laborers, and qualified Myanmar workers can now apply for certain positions without paying Smart Card fees.
AAC Ko Ye Min, who assists Myanmar workers in Thailand, reported to Yangon Modern News that one chicken processing factory has already hired over 600 Myanmar workers to replace departed Cambodian workers. Unemployed Myanmar workers and those dissatisfied with their current workplaces have been applying for these positions. The process of replacing Cambodian workers with Myanmar workers has been described as straightforward and uncomplicated for those with proper documentation. Employers are willing to provide necessary training for specific job skills required in their respective industries.
The labor transition has been triggered by the ongoing conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, which prompted the mass return of Cambodian workers to their homeland. Thai business owners are actively seeking Myanmar workers to fill these vacancies, according to labor rights advocates. The situation has created new employment opportunities for Myanmar workers, with some positions offering immediate placement without additional fees. This development comes at a time when the Myanmar military council is implementing mandatory military service, leading to concerns about population movement and workforce availability within Myanmar.
