Impact of the Ebola virus disease outbreak on market chains and trade of agricultural products in West Africa
Using the outcomes of a technical consultation meeting organized by FAO in December 2014 in Dakar, Senegal, with the support of CIRAD, and building on past studies conducted by FAO and other partners, the report presents an analysis of the impact of the EVD outbreak on agricultural market chains. Seven market chains were selected and studied based on their importance to regional food security, the risks associated with Ebola and the extent of disruptions caused by the outbreak. This includes rice, cassava, potatoes (as an example of horticultural products), cocoa, palm oil animal products, bushmeat and cocoa in Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia. Conclusions and recommendations for restoring trade flows and ensuring the smooth functioning of markets while minimizing the risk of disease spread are also included.