There is a common saying: this world is a global village, a consequence of which is observed in the form of availability of any food product at your doorstep or displayed on the shelves of your local markets. This development has a few advantages like introducing international items within the local community and could possibly facilitate in the generation of new business ideas for entrepreneurs. Despite such benefits, this has caused more harm than good as it gives a huge blow to the cottage industry, impacts food prices, and even have detrimental effects on the environment.
The likely benefit of this condition is that the consumers are presented with variety of goods to choose from that targets their satisfaction. Also, the local community can follow new trends and form better ideas for their own commodity like playing with spices. For instance, the popular Dubai chocolate has led to the production of a range of new sweet brands with unique tastes.
In contrast, the primary disadvantage being cottage industry adversely affected, thus bringing demotivation among the business owners because most individuals start buying outsourced food materials from the supermarkets located in their area. At the same time, it directly impacts the competition among local business owners due to which the quality and quantity of local-made products is affected. For example, in a survey, conducted by the Food Authority Department of Pakistan (FAD) in 2023, it was noted that more than 35% chips making factories closed down due to the above mentioned circumstances.
Furthermore, taxes are applied on such commodities sharply raising the rates bringing inflation into the picture. Consequently, the economy of the country is disturbed due to the capital flying to another person’s pockets instead of remaining in the system. Another challenge is the adverse effect on the environment by bringing the supply from outside the country needs them being loaded on the ships or airplanes causing air pollution, therefore, negatively impacting the ecosystem.
In conclusion, more chance should be given to the citizens of a country to form their own food products according to their taste buds which will produce cost effective commodities rather than an influx of outsourced items.