According to Thailand’s finance ministry, the country’s economy is projected to grow 3% in 2025. This is supported by optimistic yet cautious forecasts on continuous tourism recovery, increased consumer confidence, investment growth in infrastructure projects, tourism, digital economy, and export expansion.
As the country adapts to global shifts and local opportunities, 2025 promises to be a pivotal year for employers, job seekers, and entrepreneurs alike. Here are significant trends to give you insights on the 2025 outlook for the Thai job market.
1. High demand for skilled tech professionals
To enhance its global competitiveness, particularly in the technology sector, the Thai government is aiming to create 280,000 new tech jobs in the next five years. The plan focuses on three key areas:
• Electric vehicles:
150,000 jobs to drive sustainable transportation solutions
• Semiconductor industry:
80,000 jobs to support the country’s growing tech infrastructure
• Artificial intelligence (AI):
50,000 jobs to fuel innovation and development
Recruitment agencies in Thailand will intensify their efforts to search and attract skilled professionals in IT, digital marketing, data analysis, and software development. To meet this demand, Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society ministry and the Digital Economy Promotion Agency established the “4D” policy which encompasses four key pillars: regional digital hubs, international talent acquisition, digital entrepreneurship support, and student career preparation.
2. Flexibility and finding purpose at work
With the increasing presence of millennials and Gen Zs in the Thai workplace, employers should consider how to provide a work environment where they can thrive to their fullest potential. A 2024 survey by consulting firm Deloitte revealed that Thai millennials and Generation Z are looking to work for companies that offer work-life balance as well as learning and development opportunities.
Thai millennials and Gen Zs are a values-driven workforce, with 96% and 99%, respectively, citing purpose as vital to job satisfaction and well-being. They are unwilling to compromise, with over half refusing to work with organisations that conflict with their ethics and beliefs. This highlights the importance of aligning company values with employee convictions.
Offering flexible work options, like work-from-home or hybrid work arrangements, can help them achieve work-life balance and support their well-being. Investing in training programs not only helps them upskill but also enables companies to retain great talent in the long run. Updating core values and putting them into practice will help attract like-minded individuals to join the organisation.
3. Integrating diversity
Studies by McKinsey and the Boston Consulting Group have proven that diversity in the workplace can positively influence business success. Companies that prioritise racial and ethnic diversity are 35% more likely to achieve better financial returns. The research also indicated that diverse management teams generate 19% higher revenue through innovative breakthroughs, reflecting the value of inclusive leadership.
As the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace continues to grow, Thai employers are demonstrating their commitment to building diverse teams. By actively promoting gender equality, recruiting from diverse ethnic backgrounds, and cultivating inclusive work environments, companies can leverage the benefits of diverse perspectives and experiences. This strategic approach not only enhances innovation and decision-making but also attracts the best talent and fosters a sustainable workforce.
4. Addressing workforce aging and skills mismatch
Thailand’s workforce is aging, creating a skills mismatch crisis and potential labour shortages. To resolve this, employers are encouraged to invest in implementing training programs that will help veteran employees update their skills to meet evolving business needs. Mentorship programs or providing consultancy roles are also recommended so they can share their expertise and experience. These strategies are also aligned with Thailand’s cultural value of respecting hierarchy and senior staff.
5. Exploring overseas work
According to a 2024 Global Talent Survey, 79% of Thai job seekers are interested to pursue job opportunities abroad. Factors include career development, expanding international expertise, and better compensation. Education and training, business management, legal, and IT are the sectors with high interest for working abroad.
On the other hand, there’s less inclination to relocate overseas for financial services, administrative and secretarial work. This may indicate that there are more lucrative prospects in these fields locally or virtually.
6. Shifting to the gig economy via remote/virtual work
In the same 2024 Global Talent Survey, a significant surge for remote work was noted among Thai professionals from 50% in 2020 to 76% in 2023. With various digital platforms available, the gig economy is booming as more Thai workers can work virtually anytime and anywhere for local and international clients. This can be for short-term projects or for regular freelance work.
Though this may reduce the need for actual physical office space, issues may arise such as risks to job security and lack of employee benefits, rights, and privileges. Labour policymakers must be more proactive in taking this dynamic workforce into consideration.
7. Continued growth in construction and tourism
Based on Eurogroup Consulting’s Thailand Market Research, the country’s construction industry is poised for sustained growth, with a projected 4% annual average growth rate from 2025 to 2028. Government investments in tourism infrastructure, energy projects, and housing developments are key drivers of this growth.
To further boost the economy, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) aims to attract 40 million foreign visitors and generate 3.4 trillion baht in tourism revenue in 2025. This strategic move is expected to drive a 7.5-10% growth in tourism revenue next year.
Given the optimistic outlook for these two key industries, there is a pressing need for additional manpower and skilled talent to support their growth and development.
ASW Consulting: Trusted Talent Acquisition Specialist in Thailand
As 2024 draws to a close, prospects remain bright for Thailand’s job market. To support your organisation’s growth in 2025, partner with a reliable recruitment agency in Bangkok to help you attract and retain exceptional talent. ASW Consulting offers expert executive headhunter services in Thailand. Our team of talent acquisition specialists in Bangkok will provide personalised recruitment solutions tailored to your unique business requirements. For more information about our services, contact us today.
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