The initiative was launched yesterday (Mar 24) at the Sea Pearl Grand Hotel Phuket, where more than 50 participants from government agencies, private businesses, employers, labour volunteers and partner organisations gathered to take part.
Presiding over the opening ceremony, Phuket Provincial Labour Office Chief Worawalanch Waritputtimeth said the programme is designed to build a stronger, more coordinated labour network capable of identifying and preventing exploitation, particularly in sectors considered at higher risk.
The training focuses on improving understanding of labour laws and strengthening mechanisms to prevent and resolve cases of forced labour and child labour. Particular attention is being given to supply chains linked to shrimp, fisheries, sugarcane and garment industries, where vulnerable workers are more likely to be affected.
Officials said the programme also aims to ensure that workers receive their legal rights and protections, while equipping stakeholders with practical tools to monitor labour conditions and respond effectively to violations.
The initiative comes amid continued international scrutiny of labour practices in Thailand, including concerns raised in the United States Department of State’s Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report. Authorities noted that strengthening labour oversight and transparency in supply chains is essential to maintaining international confidence.
The training also highlighted potential economic risks, including the possibility of Thai goods being listed under international watchlists such as the TVPRA and Executive Order lists, which identify products linked to forced or child labour. Inclusion on such lists could negatively impact exports, particularly in fisheries and animal feed industries.
Although Phuket’s economy is largely driven by tourism, officials stressed that labour standards in supporting sectors remain critical to the province’s overall economic stability and reputation.
Speakers at the event underscored the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as civil society, in building a sustainable monitoring system to prevent labour violations.
Worawalanch urged participants to apply the knowledge gained from the training in their respective roles, with the goal of raising labour standards across the province and reinforcing Phuket’s image as a responsible destination on the international stage.