Thailand - A total of 27,717 workers in Thailand lost their jobs in the first quarter of this year, according to the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare.

According to Amporn Nitisiri, director-general of the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare, 55,546 workers from 698 workplaces were laid off last year. This year, 293 firms cut 27,717 jobs between January 1 and April 20, says a report by Asia One.

"Layoffs were highest in Samut Prakan, Ayutthaya, Pathum Thani, Bangkok and Chachoengsao, respectively," says Amporn.

Companies had been forced to reduce headcount and enforce a hiring freeze due to business losses, cash-flow problems and a fall-off in purchase orders. Most of the businesses affected were in the electronics parts, textiles, tanning, auto and furniture sectors.

"More layoffs are expected to affect other businesses," says Amporn.