By Hsu Latt Phyu - Apr 07, 2024 

There is a shortage of workers in domestic businesses, and not only sole proprietorships but also large-scale enterprises are experiencing labor shortages.

The decline in business activity, the low basic wages and the subsequent concerns of the military service law after the coup d'état have resulted in more and more young people of working age choosing to go abroad to work.

“I saw many job vacancies but they give only 100,000 lakhs or a little more which would not cover our expenses. I will work only at the jobs that give more,” said a young person who is seeking for a job.

Both factories and self-owned businesses are facing a situation where new workers are scarce to replace the vacant positions due to the low basic wages for new workers.

Young people of working age are leaving abroad because of the both military service law, and the low wages and insufficient incomes in the home country.

"I've been working at this factory for about 2 years. I'm 68 years old. There are other people with over 60 years old too. Over 50 years old I can apply for a job too if they are in good health," said a security stuff at the garment factory.

The current minimum wages for the security jobs are 170,000 kyats and the census, ID card, ward and police certificate are required to apply for the position.

“The working hours are from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. I can take leave the next day if I work all day today. I take in charge of the outdoor area. The job is not very tiring. The age limit was 45 years old before but for now the hire elderlies as they can’t get young people,” said a security stuff.

The amount of young people going abroad to work has increased after the coup d'état. Due to this situation, the employment of the child labors and elderlies have increased.