On March 13, 2025, the Thai Frozen Foods Association (TFFA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, Department of Fisheries, Rights and Liberties Protection Department, Thai Chamber of Commerce and Board of Trade of Thailand, Asian Research Center for Migration, Center of Excellence on Migration and Development, Institute of Asian Studies (Chulalongkorn University), Thai Tuna Industry Association, Thai Pet Food Trade Association, Thai Feed Mill Association, and Thai Fishmeal Producers Association, co-organized a seminar titled:

“Challenges in Human Rights, Child Labour, and Forced Labour in Thailand’s Fisheries and Seafood Industry”

The seminar was held at the Chumpot-Pantip Conference Room, 4th Floor (Office), Prachathipok-Ramphaiphanni, and was also accessible online. TFFA was represented by Mr. Anucha, President of the Association, and Ms. Nareerat, Deputy Executive Director.

Human Rights, Child Labour and Forced Labour: Key Issues and Learnings

Insights were shared by representatives from the Delegation of the European Union to Thailand, International Labour Organization (ILO), International Organization for Migration (IOM), and academic experts from abroad.

1. EU's Emphasis on Human Rights

The EU prioritizes the protection of human and labour rights, supported by international treaties that link these rights with trade mechanisms.

2. Legal Framework of the EU

The EU sets binding regulations for both its member states and trade partners, referencing ILO definitions of forced labour and child labour. Key legislative instruments include

- Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD)

- Regulation on Banning Products Made with Forced Labour from the EU Market

These laws hold companies accountable for environmental, labour, and supply chain practices.

3. Implementation Timelines

- CSDDD was adopted in January 2024. Member states must implement national legislation by 2026, with enforcement starting from 2027–2029.

- The EU will evaluate imported goods to ensure they are not produced using forced labour.

- EU-funded projects in Thailand, such as Ship to Shore Rights, support the protection of migrant workers.

4. Key Recommendations

- Ratify ILO Conventions C87 and C98 to support migrant workers' rights and freedom to unionize.

- Abolish recruitment fees paid by workers.

- Allow migrant workers the freedom to change employers.

- Establish child care support for workers in seafood processing plants.

- Enhance labour inspection systems both at sea and onshore.

5. Summary of Observations

1. Thailand has reformed its fisheries and labour management systems over the past decade.

2. Despite progress, several unresolved issues remain in employment practices.

3. Policy shifts alone are not enough — a mindset shift among stakeholders is also essential.

4. Employers should adopt fairer wages and better working conditions to retain workers.

5.The industry must improve workplace standards in line with both national laws and practical implementation.

Panel Discussion: Labour Rights, Human Rights Protection, and Future Directions

Future Outlook and Expectations

1. Businesses are increasingly capable of aligning with international labour laws and standards.

2. Multisectoral collaboration has grown — including partnerships between government, private sector, associations, supply chain actors, partner countries, and international organizations — facilitated by dialogue platforms and working groups.

3. The government plays a key leadership role in coordinating national labour efforts.

4. Labour import procedures should be simplified, made more transparent, and reduce recruitment costs for migrant workers, while addressing corruption issues.

5. There should be greater international communication and visibility about Thailand's labour efforts, especially toward the EU and US.

Key Barriers and Recommendations to Address Labour Rights Violations and Forced Labour in the Fisheries and Seafood Industry

Strategic Next Steps

1. Establish dedicated Working Groups involving public, private, civil society, academic, and media stakeholders to exchange views and formulate actionable proposals for discussion with the EU and US.

2. Streamline documentation procedures for migrant workers to ensure greater transparency and eliminate corruption risks.

3. Improve communication and collaboration between all sectors to enhance operational efficiency, supported by standardized and shared data.