Bangkok: Myanmar's wages are "not keeping pace with rising costs," threatening a labor influx into Thailand and job losses. Mr. Krit Ungvituratsathit, Chairman of the Thai-Myanmar Business Council, discussed these concerns on the Good Morning ASEAN program on MCOT News FM 100.5, highlighting the troubling situation for Myanmar's labor force.

According to Thai News Agency, despite several minimum wage increases of around 1,000 kyat each time from the previous fixed rate of 4,800 kyat per day since 2018, these adjustments are insufficient to combat soaring inflation. The cost of living, including fuel and consumer goods, has increased two to three times, rendering wage increases merely a "symptom," not a solution. Consequently, finding work within Myanmar has become significantly more challenging.

The survival strategy for Myanmar workers now hinges on rapidly developing their skills through upskilling and reskilling to retain jobs. Vocational training schools are emerging in sectors such as construction, welding, and bricklaying. Language courses for English, Thai, and Chinese-crucial for working abroad-are also gaining importance. However, unskilled workers still face considerable risks in this evolving job market.

Attention must turn to the upcoming minimum wage adjustments, following a three-fold increase in oil prices and a worsening brain drain. A significant number of skilled workers are migrating to Thailand, followed by Malaysia, with growing numbers also heading to South Korea and Japan due to stricter employment restrictions in Thailand.

In Thailand, Myanmar workers are adapting by engaging in online marketing among their fellow workers. However, within Myanmar, they encounter limitations in internet access and platform proficiency. Locally, Bang Bon Market has become a hub for Myanmar people, where vendors need to communicate in the Myanmar language to thrive.

The Myanmar Trade Union Council proposes a fair wage of 12,000-17,000 kyat per day, which would raise monthly wages to 700,000-800,000 kyat from the current 400,000-500,000 kyat (approximately 3,000-4,000 baht). Such a measure could severely impact businesses, particularly given the continuously rising cost of food, such as fresh vegetables, which have increased from 200-300 kyat per bunch to 500-1,000 kyat.