Maiquetía Remains La Guaira's Commercial Engine

Maiquetía is emerging as the commercial engine of La Guaira, Venezuela, providing a crucial lifeline after a series of earthquakes ravaged the region. While the seismic events inflicted immediate destruction on lives and infrastructure, they also left a deep scar on the state's economy, disrupting daily life for many survivors.

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Maiquetía was the area that suffered the least damage, and that's why we didn't stop working; in the end, one needs this to live.

Areas like Catia La Mar, Macuto, and Caraballeda have seen significant commercial impact. Many storefronts remain closed, with only a few businesses bravely attempting to resume operations amidst the altered reality. In some blocks, where numerous shops once stood, only one might be open, itself bearing the marks of the earthquakes.

However, Maiquetía stands as a notable exception to this widespread economic paralysis. The town is now functioning as a commercial sanctuary for residents from the hardest-hit areas. Many businesses there reopened by June 26, with some workers like Andrés, a fruit stand employee, stating they have been operating since June 25. "Maiquetía was the area that suffered the least damage, and that's why we didn't stop working; in the end, one needs this to live," he explained.

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If we don't work, what do we eat? The majority of businesses that are working and full of people are those selling food, like butcher shops and supermarkets. There is movement of people; it is necessary. If not, what can one expect?

As a result, people from all over La Guaira have begun traveling to Maiquetía for their shopping needs, particularly for food, which remains the most sought-after commodity. Julio Galicia, a kiosk owner, emphasized the necessity of commerce for both workers and consumers. "If we don't work, what do we eat?" he asked. He noted that businesses selling food, such as butcher shops and supermarkets, are particularly busy. Galicia confirmed that customers are coming from farther afield, including Las Tunitas, to access goods in Maiquetía, highlighting the widespread disruption elsewhere.

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That lady has a daughter and came all the way here because the young woman, who is from Caraballeda, just gave birth and was asking for help. If I had had it, I would have given her some money. She said she had to get her daughter out of the shelter because where she is, it's very uncomfortable for her with her baby.