Thailand finally signs ASEAN tourism employment pact

BANGKOK- On November 10, Thailand Ministry of Tourism and Sports finally put its signature on an Asean Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA) on tourism professionals. Tourism Minister Chumpol Silapa-archa attended the signing ceremony along with delegates from other Asean member states, who welcomed the move. 

Surin Pitsuwan, ASEAN Secretary-General declared that tourism would be a key driver to
ASEAN economic prosperity as it is promoted as a single destination. Currently, tourism accounts for 5 per cent of the bloc's gross domestic product , welcoming 82 miillion international travellers in 2011.Tourism generates jobs for approximately 10 million of people with nearly another 25 million indirectly involved. 

Thailand’s signature has been delayed for many years due to legal but also political hurdles. From a legal point of view, any international agreement that will bring about changes in Thailand must be approved by Thailand’s Parliament, according to the country’s constitution. However, political instability has delayed the process of agreeing to the new pact.

There was also another hidden agenda behind the delay. Thailand remains relatively protectionist for its economy and opening up 32 job positions to any foreign national from the ASEAN is seen as a threat to local employment. The MRA on tourism professionals is ASEAN sixth agreement along with medicine, nursing, dentistry, engineering, and architectural services. The list of the job positions are then mutually recognized under the Asean Minimum Competency Standards.

While it is possible that Thailand will experience an influx of workers from other countries seeking a job in the Kingdom, Thai will also have the possibility to find a job in another ASEAN member State.

The move is expected to help Thailand maintain its leadership in the hospitality industry while promoting regional service standardisation. According to Thailand Minister of Tourism, the MRA will generate higher service quality for consumers but also for the industry employers.

Sourced: traveldailynews