The Daily Journal — The recent earthquakes dealt a devastating blow to the productive sector in La Guaira. Of the 7,000 businesses that operated across the state before the disaster, only 1,752 establishments—or 25%—remain standing, according to preliminary results from the first phase of the commercial census presented by Governor José Alejandro Terán.
During a televised interview, the governor said authorities are now focusing on supporting the businesses that survived and helping restore those that suffered earthquake damage but still have a realistic chance of reopening.
Credit lines for businesses
To prevent the remaining commercial sector from collapsing, the regional government has developed a financial assistance strategy in coordination with Venezuela’s public and private banking systems.
“We are working with both public and private banks to provide credit lines for replenishing inventories, repairing equipment, and supporting businesses,” Terán said.
At the same time, the governor’s office is conducting a specialized census to identify business owners and entrepreneurs currently living in temporary camps, mobile shelters, or affected communities. Authorities plan to use that information to provide emergency financing in coordination with Vice President for the Economy Anabel Pereira.
Employment and tourism plans under seismic safety standards
The governor also addressed the tourism sector, which remains closely tied to commercial activity along the coast. He said officials have already met with more than 4,000 tourism service providers representing three federations to assess the extent of their losses.
The recovery strategy includes a temporary employment program focused on restoring beaches and seaside recreational areas. Officials expect the initiative to help revive commercial activity and generate income over the medium term while ensuring that all new infrastructure fully complies with international earthquake-resistant construction standards.
