Haiti: Haiti: Multi-Sector Market Environment Analysis - To What Extent Can Markets Meet the Basic Needs of the Population Affected by Hurricane Matthew? (October 2016)

Overview

• The hurricane had a major negative impact on livelihoods, infrastructure and roads. Widespread damage to subsistence production increases the reliance of households on markets for basic needs. At the same time, essential movement of money and goods has been severely constrained, with some departments cut off from the capital, resulting in localised shortages of basic items and price increases.
• Households in Haiti were struggling to recover from several years of drought and the consequences of the 2010 earthquake. High levels of inflation, limited government support, and continued erosion of livelihood opportunities are some of the main challenges.
• Markets in Haiti have shown to bounce back relatively quickly after sudden-onset events. Market-based responses, including cash-based programming, which also helps restore market functionality, have proven to be a feasible option to consider over in-kind assistance. However, there is currently insufficient information available in the public domain to inform decisions on the most appropriate interventions beyond the immediate response phase. Rapid remote assessments on the functionality of markets, availability of goods and price data (food and non-food items) is required.