This study investigates ways to strengthen agri-food markets and value chains— and related social-protection mechanisms—to build a more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive food system in Sri Lanka and Nepal, with the aim of helping these countries make a speedy recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic shock. Combining secondary research with primary data collected through in-depth interviews, the study analyses the impacts of COVID-19 on rice and vegetable value chains in the two focal countries. It illustrates that despite government initiatives to help food producers, distributors, and consumers during the lockdown, supply chain disruptions have had a negative impact on the food security of affected populations and thus the achievement of SDG 2 (zero hunger).
