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Restaurants

Low Number of Cambodian Workers in Thai Restaurant Sector

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Thailand's restaurant industry employs a disproportionately low number of workers from Cambodia, according to the Thai Restaurant Association. Typically, major tourism cities in Thailand employ around 60% foreign workers, with Myanmar and Laos being the leading source countries in the sector. Cambodian workers account for fewer than 10% of the total workforce in the restaurant industry, primarily working in tourism areas near the Thai-Cambodian border.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Thai Restaurant Association estimates that Cambodians account for fewer than 10% of the total workforce in the restaurant sector.
  • Major tourism cities in Thailand employ around 60% foreign workers, with Myanmar and Laos being the leading source countries.
  • Cambodian workers are more likely to work in manufacturing or agriculture than in the food and hospitality businesses.
  • There is a difference between the reality of daily operations and what has been reported in the news, with some reports potentially having a hidden agenda.
  • The Thai Restaurant Association's survey of restaurants in the eastern region showed no signs of Cambodian workers being urged to return home.
  • The impact of any potential worker relocations on the restaurant industry would be minimal, especially during the low season.
  • However, a drop in Cambodian workers during Thailand's peak tourist season could worsen existing labour constraints in tourism areas.

Statistics:

  • 40% of Thai workers and 60% foreign workers are employed in major tourism cities' restaurants (According to Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the Thai Restaurant Association).
  • 10% or fewer of the total workforce in the restaurant sector are Cambodian workers (Estimated by Thaniwan Kulmongkol).
  • 40 million foreign visitors are expected to visit Thailand this year (Government target).
  • 60% of workers in major tourism cities are foreign workers (According to the Thai Restaurant Association).

Sources:

  • Thaniwan Kulmongkol, president of the Thai Restaurant Association
  • The Thai Restaurant Association

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