Home Builder Association Proposes 5 Measures to Address Foreign Labor Shortage Crisis

The Home Builder Association has highlighted the critical shortage of foreign workers hampering Thailand's business competitiveness and is urging the government to implement five urgent measures to resolve the crisis before the second-half economy weakens further. Association President Anon Amornvattee revealed that Thailand faces severe labor shortages across all sectors, particularly in construction, and is seeking solutions to prevent business disruptions. The association has submitted five proposals through the 3-Institution Private Sector Joint Committee to government agencies including the Thai Chamber of Commerce, Thai Industry Association, and Thai Bankers Association to mitigate the impact on home builder businesses. Amornvattee outlined the five urgent measures proposed to the government to address labor shortages in the construction industry: First, expedited registration of illegal foreign workers already in the country by offering special exemptions that allow them to obtain work permits without deportation, enabling the fastest integration into the formal system. Second, streamline import procedures and reduce hidden costs associated with the complex MOU documentation process involving multiple agencies. Converting the verification process into a one-stop service will improve transparency and reduce employer costs while encouraging migrant workers to enter the system legally. Third, upgrade work permit renewals to a real-time E-Work Permit system using digital technology. Current approval or renewal processes take weeks or months, but modernizing the system to instantly update information on screen would prevent construction business disruptions. Fourth, open MOU agreements with alternative countries to diversify the foreign worker supply chain. Thailand's construction industry has been overly dependent on certain countries, creating risks if diplomatic conflicts arise. Expanding agreements with new countries would distribute workforce risks more effectively. Fifth, develop a systematic upskilling program in cooperation with the government and association. Since construction requires many skilled craftsmen, both the public and private sectors should collaborate to standardize skill development, ensuring fairness for both employers who receive quality workmanship and workers who earn higher wages based on actual skills. Amornvattee emphasized: "These five measures are not merely assistance for employers, but a means to preserve Thailand's infrastructure and supply chains for both short and long-term economic survival. The home builder business has been a key economic engine for Thailand, with member companies generating approximately 9.8 to 12 billion baht from the nationwide 'owner-built homes' market."