Bac Kan province is facing significant labor market challenges, prompting local authorities and businesses to take proactive steps to alleviate these issues as they prepare for future growth.
Recent reports indicate a continued struggle for local companies at the Thanh Binh Industrial Zone to fill positions, particularly skilled labor roles. Despite having plans to hire more than 1,000 workers this year, companies like Lechenwood Vietnam Co., Ltd. are encountering difficulties attracting local talent, with many potential workers opting for employment opportunities outside the province.
"We are implementing many recruitment activities such as promoting on social media, distributing flyers at crowded areas. At the same time, the company offers incentives for workers who stay long-term and support new skilled workers," said Nong Thi Kiem, Deputy Director of Lechenwood Vietnam Co., Ltd., illustrating the efforts being made to entice employees.
Similarly, the Hong Ngoc Trading and Manufacturing Company aims to increase its production capacity significantly, requiring more workers to meet its ambitious targets. "Currently, we need to hire additional workers but are struggling to find them locally," noted the company’s representatives.
The challenge stems not only from local workers' inclination to seek higher-paying jobs elsewhere but also from some companies lacking strategic recruitment plans or timely outreach to potential employees. According to statistics from the provincial Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs, about 40,000 individuals from Bac Kan are already working outside the province, and approximately 10,000 are employed abroad.
To combat this situation, La Dinh Chinh, Deputy Director of the Bac Kan Industrial Park Management Board, emphasized the importance of local cooperation. "The province is developing 8 industrial parks, creating significant challenges for labor supply, particularly for young and unskilled workers," he stated, highlighting the need for local engagement to help residents understand the benefits of local employment opportunities.
The provincial government is also stepping up efforts to connect workers with available jobs by rolling out programs aimed at enhancing recruitment advertising and hosting job fairs. These initiatives are intended to provide clearer pathways for individuals, particularly younger workers, to secure employment within their local job market.
Despite challenges, Bac Kan's industrial development outlook remains positive. New projects are set to create employment opportunities for over 2,000 workers, generating excitement for the potential economic uplift. Local authorities are taking steps to establish stronger ties with educational institutions to equip young adults with the skills needed for the labor market.
Efforts are being made to engage both workers and businesses in these developing job opportunities. "The goal is to help workers see the benefits and opportunities of working locally," emphasized La Dinh Chinh, referring to various campaigns aimed at showcasing job prospects within the province.
While Bac Kan is actively tackling its labor market challenges, there is recognition of the broader trends affecting the nation. Traditional industries are experiencing recruitment hurdles, largely due to shifts toward urban labor markets where job seekers are more likely to find higher wages. It’s this trend toward urbanization which continually pulls talent away from rural areas—something Bac Kan needs to address urgently if it wants to retain its workforce.
Continuing with this dual focus—both on improving local job security and on ensuring companies can meet their staffing requirements—will be the province's pivotal strategy moving forward. Hopefully, with collaborative effort and strategic outreach, Bac Kan's companies will see a reduction in the employment gap and successfully navigate this transitional phase of its labor market.
With Bac Kan positioned to become home to several new development projects and industrial zones, the focus remains on sustaining employment for its young population and ensuring the province retains talented individuals who might otherwise head to larger urban centers.
The immediate future may be bright for Bac Kan's labor market, but it demands concerted efforts, strategic planning, and collaboration between the government and businesses to realize its full potential.