*1.3. COVID-19 Impact on Supply Chain*

COVID-19 has impacted all spheres of the global supply chain including distribution and packaging, as well as sourcing of raw materials [21,22]. Lockdowns disrupted the transportation of packaged foods, prepared foods, and non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages [21], whilst some companies had to close for up to two weeks for cleaning purposes [15,23]. Weersink et al. [23] also identifies capacity constrains due to social distancing in the workplace leading to operational challenges. Operational challenges include the nature of packaging due to the reduced restaurant demand.

The disruption of the global supply chain has emphasized the risk of high probability external dependence on essential items. The economic stability of a country impacts its food security; the ability to manufacture or import the required food needs. Singapore, which imports a large amount of its food, plans to produce 30% of its food by 2030, in comparison to 2019 where it only produced 10% of its food needs [24]. Hossain [25] highlights various eastern block countries limitation of imports and exports on food products, including rice, poultry, eggs, vegetables, fish, and fruit. Gemmill-Herren [26] further identifies countries would procure food locally for various reasons, beyond the fact that imports have slowed down. Thailand, which depends heavily on tourism, approximately 20% of GDP, plans to diversify its economic sector through target industries of electronics, automotive, and chemicals, as its manufacturing sector already contributes 27% of its GDP [24].

Weersink et al. [23] also highlights central co-ordination bodies for farmers and distribution to be a priority. In Brazil, the existing Solidarity Purchasing Groups (GAS) and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) exist as a network for farmers. This is an example of localized supply chain management, should localized networks be prioritized. Other strong examples of localized community coalitions are presented in North America and other parts of the world. Preiss [27] also identifies local supply networks.

The literature also indicates that a broader system of systems or ecosystem approach should be considered for workforce and supply chain; workforce ecosystems should include health and childcare as priorities while supply chains need to become dynamic and localized. The need to adopt a distributed global services model is recommended.

