Thailand turns to Sri Lankan workers as Cambodians exit

Tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border since military clashes last year have led to a labor shortage in Thailand. Cambodian workers are heading home. To fill the gap, Thailand is turning to Sri Lanka.

Ministers from Thailand and Sri Lanka signed agreements on Monday. They agreed to initially recruit 10,000 Sri Lankans to work in construction and other sectors. The Thai government says Sri Lanka has been designated as a pilot country to diversify alternative sources of labor.

Thailand relies heavily on workers from other countries to support key industries. They include manufacturing, construction, agriculture, fishing, and domestic work.

The vast majority of the workers come from neighboring Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia. Business leaders have voiced concerns that the decrease in Cambodian workers may strain the economy. Thailand's labor minister says the first group of Sri Lankan workers is expected to take up jobs early next year.

Thai Labour Minister Julapun Amornvivat said, "Thailand and Sri Lanka are forging a new chapter in our relationship through the power of our workforce, which will jointly drive economic growth and stability for both nations." He added that the agreement will safeguard the rights of Sri Lankan workers and also prevent human trafficking and illegal employment.