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While the department says the layoffs are affecting 18,249 employees, the SSO puts the figure much higher.

"We need accurate information to prepare measures for the labour crisis," the department's director general Amporn Nitisiri said yesterday.

Thai Labour Solidarity Committee president Wilaiwan sae Tia also called for the figures to be accurate.

"Without clear information, some employers may not give compensation to their laid off workers," Wilaiwan said.

She suggested the government establish a committee to monitor layoffs.

"Committee members should include employees, employers, government officials, academics and representatives from labour organisations," she said.

She said this committee should be tasked to work out efficient solutions to labour problems as well.

"It will need a budget of Bt1.5billion," she suggested.

According to the Confederation of Thai Electrical Appliances, Electronics, Automobile and Metalworkers, more than 1,000 workers in the sector have been laid off already.

In the automobile sector, it is estimated the carmakers' plan to cut production will affect up to 200,000 workers in subcontract jobs.

"Some may retain their jobs but the wage will be low," a labour leader said.