ILO and Canada launch project to strengthen Thailand’s rubber sector

BANGKOK (ILO New) – An International Labour Organization (ILO) project funded by the Government of Canada will seek to support labour rights and enhance competitiveness in Thailand’s rubber sector and supply chain.

The “Strengthening Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work and Trade Readiness in Thailand” project was launched on 10 October 2025 at an event bringing together the Ministry of Labour, employers and workers’ organizations as well as representatives of Canada and the ILO.

The three-year initiative aims to bring Thailand’s labour practices in line with international standards, a step that is increasingly important in the context of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and global supply chain demands.

The project will strengthen core labour rights in Thailand’s rubber supply chain, focusing on freedom of association, collective bargaining and workplace safety and health. Through training, dialogue and legal reforms, government, employers and workers will gain tools to prevent child labour, protect rights and improve safety. The initiative will also promote fair pay and stronger employer and worker organizations while demonstrating how fair, safe work benefits workers and businesses alike.

“I firmly believe that the project will serve as a vital instrument in strengthening fundamental rights for workers and enhancing Thailand's trade competitiveness through the creation of decent work in the rubber supply chain. This project demonstrates that treating workers fairly not only boosts productivity but also fosters positive workplace relationships and elevates the competitive potential of Thai products in the global market. Crucially, this work is made possible through the cooperation of the tripartite system, comprising the government, employers, and workers, a principle to which the Ministry of Labour has steadfastly adhered. With support from the International Labour Organization, the Government of Canada, and all relevant stakeholders, I am confident that we can strengthen the framework for labour protection, ensure decent work for all, and continue to elevate Thailand's role towards becoming a leader on the international stage.” said Samart Pattamasukhon, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour.

“Workers do more than contribute to our economies - they drive progress, support families, and strengthen communities. That’s why Canada is working with Thailand and partners through the ‘Strengthening Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work and Trade Readiness in Thailand’ project, to protect rights, uphold international labour standards, and build a future where all workers have a fair chance to succeed” said Patty Hajdu, Canada’s Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario.

“Labour rights are fundamental human rights. It’s important we provide support to our trading partners like Thailand and others around the world to strengthen and uphold workplace protections. Each and every day, we’re working together to create work environments that are fair, safe, and equitable for everyone,” added John Zerucelli, Canada’s Secretary of State for Labour.

Siriwan Romchatthong, Secretary-General of Employers’ Confederation of Thailand (ECOT) highlighted that “Responsible business practices and meaningful social dialogue are not only moral imperatives but also strategic drivers of competitiveness. By partnering with government, workers and international allies, employers can help create resilient supply chains that deliver long-term value for businesses, decent work for workers and position Thailand as a trusted leader in sustainable trade.”

Tavee Deeying, Secretary-General of the International Trade Union Confederation – Thailand Council (ITUC-TC), added, “This project provides a critical opportunity to strengthen the voice of workers in Thailand. Meaningful social dialogue and respect for the rights to organize and bargain collectively are essential for ensuring that economic growth leads to decent work and shared prosperity for all working people.”

“This project is built on the premise of inclusive and effective social dialogue,” said Xiaoyan Qian, Director of the ILO Decent Work Technical Support Team for East and South-East Asia and the Pacific and Country Director for Thailand, Cambodia and Lao People's Democratic Republic. “By bringing together government, employers and workers, we can create practical, on-the-ground solutions that not only protect workers' rights but also enhance Thailand’s competitiveness in global markets.”

Thailand is the top global producer and exporter of natural rubber, contributing roughly one-third of the world’s total output. Thanks to its warm, humid climate, the country supports the full rubber supply chain, from plantations in the southern provinces to industrial zones producing tyres, gloves, tubes and industrial parts. In 2024, exports of rubber and rubber products were valued at US$19.22 billion, according to the Ministry of Commerce. The industry provides livelihoods for over six million people, from smallholder farmers to workers in processing plants and factories.

Originally published by ILO