The Impact of COVID-19 on Informal Food Traders: A Cross-National Comparative Analysis and Framework for Future Resilience
The Impact of COVID-19 on Informal Food Traders: A Cross-National Comparative Analysis and Framework for Future Resilience

Summary/Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the vulnerabilities of informal food traders across the globe, highlighting systemic challenges within this critical economic sector. This article presents a comprehensive cross-national analysis of how the pandemic affected informal food traders in various countries, with particular emphasis on South Africa, India, Zimbabwe, and other emerging economies. Drawing on extensive literature review and theoretical frameworks, this study examines the differentiated impacts of pandemic-related restrictions on trader livelihoods, supply chains, and adaptive strategies. The findings reveal that while informal food traders demonstrated remarkable resilience, they faced intensified challenges including restricted mobility, supply chain disruptions, decreased consumer demand, and limited government support. The article proposes a multi-dimensional resilience framework for strengthening informal food trading systems against future shocks, emphasizing formalization pathways, inclusive policy development, digital integration, and social protection mechanisms. This research contributes valuable insights for policymakers seeking to develop more inclusive and sustainable approaches to informal sector development in the post-pandemic era.

• Details
• Contents