The Cabinet of Ministers approved revised documents to protect workers and combat illegal migration in the region.
The Thai Cabinet has approved revised labour cooperation agreements with Myanmar. These documents are intended to strengthen protections for migrant workers and ensure the legality of cross-border recruitment, Deputy Government Spokesperson Captain Patdarasm Thongsaluaikorn announced on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. The agreements are expected to be signed on Thursday and Friday during Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing’s visit to Thailand.
History of cooperation and reasons for revision
Cooperation between Thailand and Myanmar on the employment of Myanmar citizens began in 2016 with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which allowed Myanmar citizens to work legally in Thailand. The need to revise these fundamental documents arose from adapting to changed conditions following the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as ongoing socioeconomic and political changes in Myanmar.
Expanding areas of interaction
According to the updated Memorandum of Understanding, the Ministries of Labour of both countries will become the main coordinating agencies, significantly expanding the areas of cooperation. This includes:
- active exchange of labour market information;
- development of skills development programs;
- exchange of professional experience.
Particular attention will be paid to joint efforts to combat illegal employment and human trafficking, which are serious problems in the region.
To ensure the effectiveness of the new agreements, the parties agreed to create joint action plans and hold regular meetings. This mechanism will allow monitoring progress, responding promptly to emerging challenges, and maintaining constructive dialogue on all issues related to labour migration.
New employment rules and protection of rights
The revised Employment Agreement establishes clearer, more transparent rules on various aspects of employment. It regulates in detail:
- recruitment procedures;
- contract conditions;
- work permit procedures;
- labour rights protection;
- dispute resolution mechanisms;
- repatriation conditions.
These provisions are intended to minimize opportunities for abuse and ensure fair treatment of migrants.
Combating illegal migration and human trafficking
At the same time, the document strengthens measures to combat illegal immigration, human trafficking, and illegal employment. This part of the agreement is particularly relevant in light of the current situation, as illegal migration from Myanmar to Thailand has increased significantly in recent years. The deteriorating economic conditions in Myanmar following the 2021 military coup have forced many people to seek work abroad, making them easy prey for unscrupulous intermediaries. These intermediaries charge tens of thousands of Thai baht (THB), equivalent to hundreds of US dollars (USD), for their illegal services.
Prospects and expected results
Captain Patdarasm Thongsaluaikorn emphasized that the new legal framework will significantly simplify the process of legally recruiting workers from Myanmar. This will not only enhance protection for migrant workers but also help Thai employers meet their labour needs through legal and regulated channels. Ultimately, the updated agreements are expected to become an effective tool for curbing illegal migration and combating human trafficking, promoting greater stability and transparency in the regional labour market.
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