The Venezuelan National Association of Supermarkets and Self-Service Stores (ANSA) has recently confirmed that the national supermarket supply chain remains largely stable, with basic living supplies such as food, drinking water, and medicines generally available following two powerful earthquakes.
After the earthquakes, drinking water, bread, and canned goods such as tuna and sardines became the most purchased items among Venezuelan citizens. In response to the sudden surge in sales at some supermarkets, the association said, it has been coordinating with suppliers to restock shelves promptly and ensure the swift resumption of supplies.
"Items such as canned goods like tuna and sardines, as well as bread, are the most purchased. Currently, we are working with suppliers to ensure that these products can be restocked in a timely manner," said Italo Atencio, president of the National Association of Supermarkets and Self-Service Stores (ANSA).
"Currently, the supply in supermarkets is relatively sufficient. It is true that some supermarkets experienced temporary disruptions in their distribution systems due to the sudden earthquakes, but I have seen that all supermarkets and all food sales outlets are gradually being restocked," said Juan Colmenares, a resident of Caracas.
According to reports, vast majority of supermarkets and food production enterprises across Venezuela are currently operating normally. In La Guaira state, the hardest-hit area, four supermarkets remain open for business. A dedicated logistics support mechanism has been established to ensure the continuous delivery of essential goods to the region.
"Every day at 16:00, we must submit the following information to the Vice Minister of Interior and Justice: which trucks will depart the next day, what food they will transport, which driver is responsible, and which chain market they will deliver to. They must arrive at the assembly point before 5:30, and then proceed to La Guaira state. We have verified this from Monday to Wednesday, and the mechanism is working well. This means that these supermarkets in the area can maintain adequate supplies, making it convenient for residents of La Guaira to purchase goods," said Atencio.
Venezuela strives to ensure stable supply of daily necessities after major earthquakes
