Thai laborers take over longan picking tasks previously done by Cambodian workers in Chanthaburi province.
In the heart of Chanthaburi province, Thailand, a new workforce has taken root, replacing the traditional Cambodian labourers who have returned to their homeland due to border tensions. This shift, dubbed the recruitment of Thai workers as a new alternative workforce in Chanthaburi’s fruit industry, occurred primarily because of the exodus of Cambodian migrant workers.
The departure of Cambodian labourers, who had formed the backbone of the fruit harvesting workforce in Chanthaburi, created serious concerns among orchard owners and exporters about potential shortages during the crucial harvest season. To address this issue, Thai authorities and industry stakeholders launched a recruitment drive, inviting Thai workers from the South, North, and Northeast provinces to fill the gap and sustain the fruit harvest, particularly the longan crop.
More than 300 Thai workers, many of whom had never harvested longans before, began their new jobs in August 2025. Narongwet Mahasetthapong, a purchasing officer for longan exports, led the new recruits to orchards in tambon Patong for on-site training. Approximately 90% of these Thai workers were new to longan harvesting, but they received on-site training and supervision to acquire the necessary skills.
The workers expressed enthusiasm and optimism about the opportunity despite their initial unfamiliarity with the work. Orchard owners and officials were relieved and confident that the Thai workers would quickly become competent, noting their capability and work ethic compared to the previous Cambodian workforce. Wages were set competitively at about 700 to 1,000 baht (US$19–27) per day, with the job paying on a piece-rate basis, at 45 baht per basket.
This influx of new workers was a response to a public announcement about a shortage of longan pickers in Chanthaburi province. The attractive pay drew job seekers nationwide, and the new workers were briefed on harvesting, packing procedures, and wage structures by exporters, Chinese buyers, and orchard owners.
Thailand is considering expanding its labour pool with workers from countries such as Sri Lanka, Nepal, the Philippines, and Indonesia. However, for now, the Thai workers are stepping up to the challenge, ensuring that Chanthaburi’s critical fruit industry continues to thrive amidst the geopolitical tensions.
- As the new workforce in Chanthaburi's fruit industry, the Thai workers have shown an interest in expanding their horizons beyond just fruit-and-drink industry, expressing enthusiasm for exploring new fields such as lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, home-and-garden, relationships, pets, travel, cars, and shopping.
- With their newfound wages, the Thai workers are looking forward to indulging in some retail therapy, whether it's investing in the latest fashion trends or updating their homes with new garden furniture.
- During their free time, some of the Thai workers have taken a liking to exploring new travel destinations, dreaming of visiting places they've only heard about prior to their move to Chanthaburi.
- As they settle into their new lifestyle, several Thai workers have welcomed the company of pets, expanding their families with furry companions, providing them with a sense of comfort and companionship in their new home.
