Without Cambodian Workers' Unique Skills, Thailand's Agricultural and Industrial Sectors Are Now at Risk

PHNOM PENH, June 29, 2026 – Thailand's agricultural and industrial sectors are facing growing uncertainty as border tensions with Cambodia continue to disrupt the flow of migrant labour, with business leaders warning of severe economic consequences.

Dr. Rathawit Tangkiatphachara, President of the Thai-Cambodian Border Business and Tourism Association, said that while border areas in Chanthaburi province remain calm and free of land disputes, the most pressing challenge is the lack of Cambodian labour. He pointed out that Cambodian workers offer a level of skill and experience that is not easily matched by other migrant labour, making them irreplaceable in many sectors.

The private sector has called on the Thai government to expedite the legal registration of migrant workers already residing in Thailand, even while border crossings remain restricted, to ensure business continuity and improve monitoring efficiency.

Dr. Rathawit warned that without concrete measures, the next harvest season could face serious disruptions, particularly for high-value crops such as Pailin longan, valued at 8,000 to 9,000 million baht, as well as other key fruits in the eastern region.

He stressed that border security measures should be balanced with economic and livelihood concerns, ensuring that both security and economic interests move forward together.

— Source: News1, Thai Media Outlet

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Reported by The Khmer Today