Socioeconomic study of street vendors in Saltos del Guairá, Paraguay

Abstract

Street vendors are individuals who sell products or services in public places without a fixed location, often moving from one place to another to attract customers. The objective of the research was to describe the socioeconomic situation of street vendors in Saltos del Guairá, Paraguay. A quantitative, descriptive, non-experimental methodology was used, with a population composed of 91 street vendors in Saltos del Guairá. The data collection instrument was a questionnaire administered through a survey, conducted during fieldwork in the first semester of 2025. The results show that 65% are female and 35% are male, with 38% being between 31 and 45 years old and 33% between 46 and 60 years. Furthermore, 39% have no formal education, while 37% have completed primary education and 2% have university education. Regarding the products sold, 34% sell food and 32% offer clothing and accessories. In terms of experience, 37% have been in the activity for more than 10 years, and 46% have the necessary legal permits. Regarding income, 49% report earning more than 1.500.000 Gs per month, while 29% earn between 1.000.000 Gs and 1.500.000 Gs. With respect to challenges, weather is a limiting factor for 52%. As for access to basic services, 37% do not have access. Regarding their income, 41% have noticed an increase in the last six months, and 45% feel satisfied with their work. Finally, 80% of the vendors use technology to facilitate their sales, primarily through mobile phones.