Phnom Penh, IMF Discuss Labor Opportunities for Workers Returning from Thailand

Terry Felix On March 10, 2026 - 4:54 am In Asia Pacific 2mn Read

PHNOM PENH, March 10, 2026 — Cambodia and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have held discussions on expanding the country’s labor market, strengthening skills development and supporting the reintegration of Cambodian migrant workers returning from Thailand, officials said.

Labour and Vocational Training Minister Heng Sour met Jochen M. Schmittmann, the IMF’s regional resident representative for Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam, in Phnom Penh on March 9 to exchange views on workforce trends, skills demand and employment opportunities.

The talks focused in particular on measures to help former migrant workers returning from Thailand reintegrate into Cambodia’s labor market as the country seeks to strengthen economic resilience and improve job-matching systems.

Heng Sour said the discussion came at an important time as Cambodia continues efforts to strengthen its labor market and enhance the effectiveness of skills development programs.

The minister highlighted several government initiatives, including strengthening the role of the National Employment Agency (NEA) in collecting and sharing job opportunities from employers.

Authorities have also expanded job information services through the NEA hotline (1297), social media platforms and local job fairs and employment forums, particularly in provinces along the Cambodia–Thailand border where many returning workers originate.

In addition, the government is offering technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programs for returning workers, youth from poor and vulnerable households and other job seekers to help them acquire practical skills and secure income more quickly.

Cambodia has also introduced free Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessments to certify existing skills, particularly in sectors such as construction.

Schmittmann welcomed the exchange and praised Cambodia’s efforts to address the challenges facing returning migrant workers, noting that reliable labor market data and policy measures are important for IMF assessments and cooperation.

Officials said Cambodia hopes to further strengthen cooperation with the IMF in support of the country’s socio-economic development and workforce capacity building.