Venezuela's struggling economy hit even harder with coronavirus
CGTN
02:13

Venezuela has long been struggling with a deep economic crisis, hyperinflation, and shortages of food and medicine.

Now, it's facing the COVID-19 pandemic which could make the situation even more difficult.

The whole country is in lockdown and only essential employees are allowed to work.

Supermarkets and pharmacies are the only stores open.

People wearing masks wait in long lines to find food and medicine.

They are buying what they can, and they're worried supplies won't last.

"I came last week and I found more more products and better variety. Now I see fewer products that are not as fresh as other days," said Rafael Mora, who lives in Caracas.

Venezuela's economic collapse started in 2014.

Now the government is prohibiting company layoffs and it's suspending rent and credit payments for six months.

"I believe the economy is going to get worse like in many places in the world. Here in Venezuela products will disappear bit by bit," said Caracas resident Domingo Correa.    

The World Health Organization will support Venezuela with special aid to fight the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Venezuelans are watching and waiting as the virus spreads.

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