Publication Date: 30 June 2025
Author: Shan Li
For further details on the article, visit the journal at
https://so03.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/papojournal/article/view/289148
Abstract
In the context of globalization, an increasing number of Chinese families choose to send their children to Thailand for international education, forming a unique social group known as “accompanying mothers”. This research specifically investigates how these mothers achieve economic survival through informal activities while navigating legal ambiguity and social barriers. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining an online questionnaire survey (151 participants) and semi-structured interviews (13 participants). The study aims to answer the following question: What informal economic strategies do Chinese accompanying mothers adopt? What legal and social risks do they encounter? How can these challenges be addressed? The study found that accompanying mothers maintain economic independence and realize their self-worth through informal economic activities such as real estate investment, purchasing on behalf of others, private tour guiding, catering businesses, and translation services. However, these activities largely exist in a legal gray area, facing visa restrictions and tax compliance issues, and are mainly confined to the Chinese community, which may lead to social isolation from the local population. This research recommends that the Thai government adjust its policies concerning foreign accompanying families and provide legal pathways for entrepreneurial or investment. At the same time, it is suggested that accompanying families develop a thorough understanding of local laws and regulations and plan sustainable long-term economic models to avoid legal risks and promote social integration. Future research could explore the impact of policy on the economic activities of accompanying mothers, as well as how their legal economic participation can be encouraged through policy optimization and targeted support.