1 Shortage of Unskilled Workers in

1 Shortage of Unskilled Workers in Thailand
Before the economic crisis, the Thai economy expanded rapidly at the rate of
7.5% on average during 1990-1996. The demand for workers also increased markedly
during the same period. The very low unemployment rate together with a declining labour
force growth caused by decreased population growth trend in Thailand led to a shortage of
labour in some areas and sectors. The most affected sector was agricultural because Thai
workers from the rural agricultural area have migrated to work in the rapidly expanding