SL–Thailand Business Council seeks FTA roadmap, 10,000 job opportunities
The Sri Lanka–Thailand Business Council (SLTBC) has sought a clear roadmap for implementing the Sri Lanka–Thailand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and details on proposed employment opportunities for 10,000 Sri Lankan workers in Thailand.
The Council’s delegation, led by President Rizan Nazeer and comprising several executive committee members, met Thai Ambassador to Sri Lanka Paitoon Mahapannaporn recently to discuss measures to strengthen bilateral trade, investment and labour cooperation. The Sri Lanka–Thailand FTA, signed on February 3, 2024, has yet to come into force. During the meeting, the Council sought clarification on pending approvals, potential obstacles and the timeline for implementing the agreement.
The discussions also focused on identifying promising export sectors for Sri Lankan products in Thailand and exploring opportunities for Thai investments and business partnerships in Sri Lanka. The SLTBC offered to facilitate business-to-business (B2B) meetings and trade delegations between companies in both countries. It also proposed jointly organising an FTA awareness programme for the business community once the agreement becomes operational.
Employment opportunities featured prominently in the discussions following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Labour Cooperation and an Employment Agreement between the two countries. The Council sought details on implementation arrangements, recruitment timelines, occupations in demand and the qualifications, experience, skills and language proficiency required of Sri Lankan applicants.
The Council also offered to connect Thai employers with Sri Lankan businesses, recruitment agencies and training institutions to identify suitable candidates and provide the necessary training. It further requested information on establishing an official, verified database or channel through which employment vacancies could be communicated and circulated among its members. The delegation also raised visa-related concerns, requesting the Ambassador to explore the reintroduction of online visa facilities or visa issuance upon arrival in Thailand, as practised previously.
The SLTBC said it remained committed to supporting the implementation of the bilateral agreements, strengthening commercial ties, attracting Thai investment and expanding employment opportunities for Sri Lankan workers.
Daily News
