Cambodia Urges Returning Migrant Workers to Stay as Domestic Labor Demand Surges

PHNOM PENH, Mar. 25, 2026 (KPT) — Cambodia is urging migrant workers returning from Thailand to remain in the country as rising labor demand and improving conditions create new opportunities at home.

The Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training said Tuesday the country faces a shortage of workers, with around 90,000 vacancies across factories and enterprises nationwide.

Speaking at an outreach campaign in Kampong Speu province, ministry spokesperson Sun Mesa said Cambodia’s economy has evolved, offering more competitive wages and better conditions than in the past.

“Cambodia today is very different from 20 years ago. On average, workers can now earn between $300 and $350 per month, which is comparable to wages in Thailand,” he said.

Mesa added that workers benefit from social protection schemes, including national social security coverage, improved workplace safety and stronger employer support.

The government’s appeal is backed by job-matching programs and nationwide employment forums connecting returnees with employers.

The call follows a surge in returning workers after tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand border in 2025. Since then, more than 650,000 returnees have secured jobs or livelihoods, many through ministry-led initiatives.

Labor representatives say conditions have improved under stronger regulatory oversight and monitoring by both government and international organizations. 

Sam Soeun, president of the National Labour Confederation Cambodia, noted that compliance with national and international standards is ensured by the ministry and ILO-backed Better Factories Cambodia.

“We see clear improvements in working conditions, and workers are increasingly satisfied,” he said.

With thousands of vacancies still unfilled, officials are urging returnees to seize opportunities at home and contribute to Cambodia’s economic growth. The push reflects a broader shift in the labor market as the country seeks to retain its workforce, reduce reliance on overseas employment and strengthen its domestic economy.