This archive report was first published on 16 July 2020.
With the world slowly emerging from pandemic shutdowns, national leaders are keen to promote economic recovery while maintaining public health precautions. In a surprising move, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang recently announced plans to create 9 million new jobs and reduce urban unemployment to less than 5.5 per cent, with a focus on street vending.
Street vending, often viewed as a nuisance in the past, is now being recognized as a vital source of employment and economic growth. According to the World Bank, over 2 billion people worldwide – more than half the planet's employed population – work in the informal economy, mainly in developing countries.
Colombia, for instance, has taken a progressive approach to street vending since 2003, making it illegal to remove vendors from public spaces without offering compensation or guaranteed income-support programmes. This shift in policy has allowed street commerce to thrive, providing opportunities for poor women and marginalized groups.
As cities restart after the pandemic, street vending offers several advantages. Firstly, it can help alleviate economic pains by providing a source of income for vendors. Secondly, it can be configured to promote social distancing, making it easier to maintain public health guidelines. Lastly, many cities are already being reconfigured to accommodate street commerce, with initiatives such as widening sidewalks and creating traffic-free streets.
As we reimagine city living post-pandemic, it's essential to recognize the value of street vendors in creating a more livelier and equitable urban environment.
