ABSTRACT
This study investigates the dynamics of the street vending supply chain in Quetta, Pakistan, focusing on the supply chain, demographic characteristics, and economic contributions of street vendors. Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected through structured surveys with 169 street vendors, interviews with key stakeholders, and thematic analysis of indepth interviews. The research identifies two distinct components of the street vending supply chain: the first involves the transportation of goods from their point of origin to wholesale markets, which is outside the control of vendors. The second component, managed by the vendors themselves, includes procurement, transportation, storage, and sales at vending sites. The findings reveal that street vending in Quetta plays a critical role in the local economy, providing employment and affordable goods to the urban population despite numerous challenges such as harassment from authorities, informal fees, and a lack of formal recognition. The study also highlights the unique geopolitical and economic context of Quetta, including its reliance on cross-border trade with Afghanistan and Iran, which impacts supply chain stability. The research emphasizes the need for regulatory reforms, including the formalization of the street vending sector, the creation of dedicated vending zones, and improved supply chain infrastructure to enhance vendor livelihoods and economic contributions.