Vietnam sends over 158,000 workers abroad in 2024
Vietnam sent over 158,000 workers abroad in 2024, achieving more than 125% of the annual target. Traditional markets such as Japan, the Republic of Korea, and Taiwan (China) remained the primary destinations for Vietnamese workers, while several European markets continued to expand opportunities.
The Ministry of Labour, Invalids, and Social Affairs reported a significant recovery in the overseas labour market in 2024, with improvements in both quantity and quality.
Skill assessments for Vietnamese workers prior to departure to the Republic of Korea for contractual employment. |
Vietnamese workers sent abroad have contributed 3.5–4 billion USD annually in remittances. Known for their diligence and skills, Vietnamese workers are well-regarded internationally, but further efforts are still needed to enhance their quality and reputation.
In 2024, Vietnamese businesses sent a total of 158,588 workers (including 52,898 women) abroad, surpassing the annual plan by 26.9%.
High-income markets like Japan and the Republic of Korea along with European countries such as Lithuania and Romania increasingly require skilled professionals in shipbuilding, mechanics, and electrical work. Companies such as SONA have successfully placed nearly 500 workers in high-demand markets this year.
Challenges persist, including labour shortages, changes in recruitment policies in traditional markets, and the prevalence of illegal labour brokers. Moreover, the issue of workers overstaying their contracts abroad has an impact on Vietnam’s reputation.
To address these challenges, authorities and enterprises are placing an emphasis on skills development, foreign language training, and labour rights protection. Additionally, efforts to reintegrate returning workers into the domestic labour market are essential, especially within Japanese and Korean firms in Vietnam.
The Overseas Labour Management Department aims to stabilise traditional markets and expand high-income opportunities. These efforts are crucial to boosting the global image of Vietnamese workers and maintaining their significant contribution to the economy through remittances and skills development.
Reader's comments (0)