Labor Motivation in the Fishing Industry: A Case Study in Thailand

Abstract

The fishery industry is a vital economic and nutritional lifeline for Southeast Asia, supporting millions of livelihoods and serving as the primary source of protein for over half a billion people across the region. From 2011 to 2022, Thailand’s fishing industry saw declining catches but rising economic value, indicating a shift to higher-value species (Fisheries Policy and Planning Division, 2021). Southeast Asian nations are also facing widespread declines in wild marine catches, driven by climate change, destructive fishing gear, overfishing, and Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. These factors have heavily impacted coastal stocks, threatening local food security, ocean ecosystems, and the livelihoods of traditional fishers across the region (Geopolitical Monitor, 2018).

Researchers surveyed 394 Thai fishing vessel crews across 22 coastal provinces (a sample size determined to represent the wider workforce) using a structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was then used to compare groups and identify relationships between variables.

The findings showed that social motivation, particularly family responsibilities and relationships with vessel owners, was the most significant influencing factor among Thai fishing crews. Individual motivations also scored highly, while workplace environment motivation (including safety and hygiene) was rated positively but remained less influential than personal and social motivations.

These findings point to ways on how vessel owners and policymakers can attract Thai workers to join the fishery sector: enhance job satisfaction, foster supportive social relationships, and improve workplace conditions. Doing so would help secure the industry’s sustainability and economic growth.