Thailand to benefit from free flow of skilled labour in 2015

Thailand stands to benefit from the free flow of skilled labour during the ASEAN integration in 2015, despite mounting concerns over immigration and economic impacts.

In 2012, ASEAN member countries approved the Agreement on the Movement of Natural Persons (MNP) at the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting in Cambodia. The member nations are aiming to increase the mobility of labour within the ASEAN region by facilitating the issuance of visas and employment passes for professionals and skilled labour. The free flow of skilled labour refers to mobility of natural persons who can supply specific skills needed in another country.

The formation of the ASEAN Community would pave the way for the free flow of skilled labour in eight professions, comprising doctors, dentists, nurses, engineers, architects, accountants, surveyors and tourism service providers. Skilled workers and professionals are expected to flow into the Kingdom, especially from Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei and the Philippines. Service careers such as nursing and dentistry are expected to see particular movement, resulting in high competition in the local workforce.