The Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Global Supply Chains

Seminar paper from the year 2023 in the subject Business economics - Supply, Production, Logistics, grade: 5.0, Addis Ababa University, course: Master of Business Management, language: English, abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted global supply chains, leading to unprecedented economic challenges and logistical complexities. Originating in China in December 2019, the virus rapidly spread to over 210 countries, resulting in more than 100 million confirmed cases worldwide and over 2 million deaths. This global crisis triggered severe disruptions across various sectors, including high-tech industries, automotive manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and food supply chains. Notably, companies like Apple, Samsung, and Tesla experienced production halts due to labor shortages and supply chain constraints. Additionally, the pharmaceutical industry grappled with increased demand for essential medical supplies, while the food sector faced labor shortages and transportation disruptions. The pandemic-induced shutdowns, travel restrictions, and stringent import/export controls severely hampered international logistics, further exacerbating supply chain vulnerabilities. Consequently, the crisis highlighted the intricate interdependencies within global supply chains and underscored the urgent need for resilience, sustainability, and strategic reevaluation to mitigate future disruptions effectively.