Top 10 Industries in Thailand with the Highest Number of Foreign Workers
If you are eyeing Thailand as a cross-border career destination, the macro picture is quite clear: the demand for foreign labor remains vast and spans across many sectors. Data from the Thai Ministry of Labour indicates that there were approximately 3.32 million foreigners working in the country as of May 2024.
Beyond the sheer scale, the sectoral distribution is consistent. The Thailand Migration Report 2024 mentions that construction, agriculture (including fisheries), and agri-processing absorb more than 40% of regular migrant workers. With this landscape, you can map out your target sector more precisely before applying. Here are the 10 industries in Thailand with the highest foreign workforce.
Occupational Map and Key Sectors Relying on International Talent
Labor needs in Thailand vary significantly, ranging from labor-intensive sectors requiring high volumes of workers to high-tech sectors demanding specific specialization.
The Thai government continually strives to balance the protection of the local workforce with ease of work permits for expatriates to support global competitiveness. Below is an in-depth review of the ten industries with the highest number of foreign workers.
1. Construction & Infrastructure
The boom in infrastructure projects makes construction the largest absorber of foreign labor in Thailand. The Ministry of Labour estimates that over one million workers from Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos fill positions as welders, concrete pourers, and crane operators.
Earnings: If you have certified skills, you can earn THB 400–600 per day plus overtime. Contractors often provide dormitories, meals, and safety training.
2. Electronics & Automotive Manufacturing
Thailand is dubbed the “Detroit of Asia” and serves as an ASEAN electronics hub. In 2024, approximately 25% of the workforce in the automotive and component factories in the Eastern Seaboard were migrants.
Earnings: Tier-1 and Tier-2 companies sponsor visas for those skilled in quality control, robotics, or SMT assembly. Skilled operators earn THB 12,000–18,000 per month, while process technicians can exceed THB 25,000.
3. Agriculture & Plantations
While its GDP contribution has declined, agriculture still employs 30% of the national workforce and is increasingly dependent on migrants. ILO studies show that rubber, sugarcane, and palm oil plantations face local labor shortages.
Earnings: Incomes range from THB 9,000–13,000 per month plus harvest incentives. Knowledge of tractor maintenance or simple machinery can lead to a promotion as a block foreman.
Read Also: Top 10 Industries in Malaysia Serving as a Magnet for Foreign Workers
4. Fisheries & Seafood Processing
Thailand ranks among the world’s top three exporters of shrimp, tuna, and sardines. This industry employs around 600,000 migrants, from fishermen in Samut Sakhon to fillet workers in canneries.
Earnings: Experienced deckhands on fishing vessels can earn a net salary of THB 12,000–20,000 plus catch bonuses. Shore-based factories offer regional minimum wages and staff housing.
5. Tourism, Hotels & Restaurants
With the return of international tourists, Thailand aims for 40 million visits by 2025. Hotels and spas in Phuket or Chiang Mai seek chefs, massage therapists, and multilingual front-office staff.
Earnings: Those with international culinary certificates or barista experience can earn THB 15,000–25,000 plus tips and service charges.
6. Logistics & E-commerce Fulfillment
The surge in online shopping drives demand for couriers, warehouse pickers, and heavy truck drivers. The Ministry of Commerce projects national e-commerce value to hit THB 5 trillion by 2026.
Earnings: Fulfillment companies in Bang Na and Lat Krabang offer THB 14,000–18,000 plus volume bonuses. Global operators like DHL provide safety training in English.
7. Domestic & Household Care
The ILO records no fewer than 250,000 foreign domestic workers in Thailand. This job demands flexibility, but a salary of THB 9,000–12,000 plus room and board is the main draw.
8. Healthcare & Elderly Care
Thailand is moving toward a “super-aged” society. Private hospitals and nursing homes need English-speaking caregivers for expat clients.
Earnings: If you hold an NCLEX license or caregiving experience, wages of THB 25,000–40,000 await. The government offers a “Smart Visa-Health” allowing a four-year stay for skilled medical personnel.
Read Also: The 10 Largest Industries in Saudi Arabia Filled with Migrant Workers from Asia and Africa
9. Information Technology & Digital Hubs
The Thailand 4.0 program opens opportunities for developers, data scientists, and AI experts. The goal is to produce 280,000 high-tech talents within five years.
Earnings: Companies in True Digital Park offer THB 60,000–120,000. The Smart Visa-T (Talent) provides a four-year stay, exemption from a separate work permit, and the right to bring family.
10. Energy & Petrochemicals
The Eastern Seaboard is home to the Map Ta Phut oil refineries and petrochemical complexes. About 15% of operators and process engineers are experienced migrants.
Earnings: Those with HSE certificates or DCS panel experience can earn THB 35,000–60,000 plus housing allowances. Multinationals often sponsor ISO-safety and basic Thai language training.
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