May 2, 2024

CP Foods highlights care of fishing vessel-based migrant workers through life enhancement center

Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods) is dedicated to sourcing fishmeal sustainably to mitigate risks and impacts throughout the supply chain, the company said in a press release.

Additionally, since 2016, CP Foods has collaborated with government entities, private partners, and NGO networks to promote livelihood of migrant workers on fishing vessels by establishing the Fishermen Life Enhancement Center (FLEC Center). This initiative involves six other organisations, including the Fish Market Organization, the Department of Labor Protection and Welfare, the Planned Parenthood Association of Thailand, GEPP Sa-Ard — a Thai start-up focusing on sustainable garbage management and recycling processes — and PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited (GC).

The FLEC Center, located in the Muang District of Thailand's Songkhla Province, is dedicated to providing consultancy and aid to migrant workers on fishing vessels and their families. Beyond safeguarding against forced or unlawful practices, the FLEC Center also serves as a resource for migrant workers and their families in their day-to-day lives.

Furthermore, the center offers a first aid room where workers and their families can access initial treatment and basic disease screening services.

Throughout its eight years of operation, the FLEC Center ensures migrant workers and their families in Songkhla receive fair and adequate wages, access to basic social welfare-related healthcare and children's education. This has enabled migrant workers and their families to work and live in Thailand with confidence and safety, reducing the risks of exploitation in all forms, according to CP Foods.

Additonally, the center plays a vital role in advocating for safe working conditions for migrant workers on fishing vessels.

The FLEC Center emphasises CP Foods' collaboration with governmental, non-profit, and private entities in the eradication of slave labor and illegal employment practices within the fishery industry, CP Foods said.

- CP Foods