On March 7, 2025, the Thai labor market is poised for significant changes as Minister of Labor Mr. Pipat Ratchakitprakarn announced initiatives aimed at integrating migrant workers and various professions, most prominently the fishing industry, within the national social security system.
During a seminar entitled “Feedback on the Amendment of Alien Labor Management Laws Related to National Security and Border Activities” held at the Parliament, Minister Ratchakitprakarn affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to various labor-related activities. This includes bringing migrant workers who engage in jobs considered exceptions, such as street vendors, maids, and agricultural workers, under Section 33 of the social security law. This move is anticipated to facilitate medical care access for those currently working in Thailand and provide pension benefits upon retirement.
“We are speeding up efforts to integrate more workers under social security to protect the labor market,” stated Mr. Ratchakitprakarn. The proposal has already been submitted for consideration by the Cabinet, with expectations to be added to upcoming meeting agendas.
Concerns were raised, particularly from the fishing industry. The Thailand Fishing Association has voiced strong objections against proposals to include sea fishing occupations under the social security system. The association contends, “We oppose the inclusion of fishing jobs under the social security system… because migrant workers already have health coverage.”
These reservations stem from insights shared during recent association meetings held prior to the minister’s announcement. A consensus emerged among members firmly opposing this regulatory inclusion, highlighting six key arguments.
Firstly, they pointed out the transient nature of fishing work. Fishermen frequently shift between on and off vessels, with operations not consistently occurring throughout the year due to adverse weather conditions and the seasonal closure of fishing areas.
Secondly, most commercial and small-scale fishing operators are individual entities rather than legal organizations capable of managing the paperwork required for social security compliance.
“There is already existing labor welfare protection under the Ministry of Labor,” the association added, asserting the current systems adequately protect the rights and needs of their workforce.
They stress this makes it unnecessary to impose additional social security requirements.
Members of the fishing association noted how, under the existing laws, Thai fishermen receive medical treatment under the National Health Security Act, which assures all citizens access to care, complemented by supplementary insurance options set by employers.
Another concern raised involved the migrant workers’ legal status. Many such workers hold temporary permits and may not stay indefinitely within Thailand, and so imposing extra financial obligations for social security seems redundant.
They argued, “It is already problematic when collecting insurance dues under current laws, adding social security payments will only increase financial strains on both employers and employees.”
Currently, fishing operators contribute to the “Compensation Fund” which provides relief for both Thai and migrant workers. The focus remains on enhancing labor welfare standards via existing channels, underscoring their belief fishing jobs should not fall under the additional social security blanket.
This rift amid industry stakeholders places increased pressure on Minister Ratchakitprakarn to balance the perspectives of different professions as the Ministry aims to push forward with labor security reforms. The Minister is expected to conduct follow-up conversations to mediate the situation, with Deputy Prime Minister Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul slated to convene on March 12th to address these concerns and push for progress.
These developments signal significant shifts within Thailand’s labor sector with potential ramifications for both migrant workers and the fishing industry. For now, stakeholders are preparing to navigate the intricacies of these impending changes and the reactions they evoke.