“We have to distance ourselves today in order to hold each other closer”, said Martin Vizcarra during his press conference announcing an extension of the state of emergency in Peru. Following the announcement, experts such as Waldo Mendoza stated that the fallout from this crisis could be comparable to the aftermath of war with Chile. And with other countries in the region predicting similar outcomes, many experts agree that the Latin American economy faces a difficult future.
These projections place on the regional agenda the need for more inclusive economic policies, and furthermore, a collective conscience that allows us to combat the negative effects of a situation that has paralyzed economic activity and affected millions of families, especially those who live from day to day on a minimum wage.
For this reason it is recommended that after the quarantine, everybody should return to their routine, favouring the consumption of local products that will help small businesses to recover from the adverse effects of COVID-19. Remember, among those most affected are small agricultural producers, hairdressers, independent clothing stores, and other entrepreneurs who do not have access to the financial support that would speed up their recovery.
In these fairs or markets you will find startups selling high-quality, natural products. Remember, this isn’t about philanthropy, but about supporting micro-companies whose quality products and services help you meet your needs in an optimal fashion.
Bio Feria, Miraflores, Lima Peru
Sharing this type of initiative is important to promote local products, as it draws the attention of other would-be customers. Becoming an influencer has never been so easy, especially if you can use your friendship to help others, and recommendations and tips are always well received.
Consuming local products not only helps the local economy, but also encourages eco-friendly and artisanal production and distribution. This has a great effect on health, the preservation of cultural diversity and the ecosystem.
The demand for local products and services contributes to the development of a market with competitive prices, and products of a higher quality. Savings in transport costs and the cutting out of middlemen make prices transparent and directly benefit the producer.
Finally, despite these tough times it is important to see the glass as half full and not the other way around, and time to change our ways by contributing to our local market. Small businesses need our help to see out the quarantine period, during which they have not been able to stay open or sell their products and services.
Feira do Paranoá, Brasilia, DF, Brazil
