The Current Situation of Myanmar Migrants in Thai Economy: Social Integration Case of Samut Sakhon Province, Thailand

This research aims to examine the current situation of the Thai community due to the inflow of Migrant worker in Samut Sakhon in 2019 by applying qualitative method. The sampling group consists of twenty-five business owners in Samut Sakhon province; that is mostly small businesses and medium enterprises with between 20 and 50 employees, have been operating the business more than ten years in operating and currently is hiring Myanmar workers. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and secondary resources. The research found: there is no significant change in labor turnover. Government’s rules and regulations rarely have a practical effect on Myanmar workers; besides, most areas are not controlled by the authorities. Myanmar communities in Thailand grow due to the increasing number of Myanmar workers. Some of the Myanmar workers establish their businesses that serve the community in the area. Myanmar workers became a part of the industry in the Samut Sakhon province. Both Myanmar workers and Thai business owners have to adapt according to the situation of economic and social changes. Myanmar workers are also satisfied with the compensation. Meanwhile, most of Thai business owners prefer to hire laborers from Myanmar now and in the foreseeable future.