(Yicai) Jan. 5 -- Chinese-owned supermarkets in Venezuela remain open, according to a Chinese resident, even as many shelves were cleared after the United States carried out a military strike on the South American country and captured its president.

Most supermarkets, including Chinese ones, are still open, Liza, a Chinese citizen born in Venezuela and living in Valencia, about 150 kilometers west of the capital Caracas, told Yicai yesterday.

The US launched a surprise military attack on Venezuela at 2 a.m. local time on Jan. 3, capturing and taking away President Nicolás Maduro Moros and his wife. Residents in many cities subsequently rushed to supermarkets and pharmacies to stock up on supplies, leaving many shelves empty.

While shelves have been picked over, supermarket warehouses are believed to have inventory that can be brought out in stages, Liza noted, adding that most grain companies remain shuttered for the New Year holiday, leaving the timing of fresh deliveries uncertain.

The US attack was sudden and completely unexpected, according to Liza. Even though there had been news reports of US President Donald Trump threatening to attack Venezuela, locals did not really believe that it would happen. Chinese nationals in the country -- who mainly live in major cities such as Caracas, Maracaibo, and Valencia -- have been left unsettled and on guard. 

“Most Chinese people in Venezuela are confused, not knowing what lies ahead and waiting to see how things develop,” Liza pointed out. “Because there might be some conflicts during the ‘handover of power,’ Chinese citizens here are on high alert.”

Chinese in the country mainly run supermarkets, department stores, restaurants, and import and export businesses, Liza noted, estimating that the ratio of Chinese-run supermarkets to large chain supermarkets is seven to three.

China’s Foreign Affairs Ministry issued a reminder on Jan. 3 that the US military strike in Venezuela has significantly raised security risks in the country.

The ministry and the Chinese Embassy in Caracas urged Chinese citizens not to travel to the country for the time being, and advised those already there to closely monitor the security situation, strengthen precautionary and emergency preparedness, limit outings to essential needs only, and avoid conflict zones and sensitive areas.

In the event of an emergency, Chinese citizens in Venezuela are advised to promptly contact the local police and the Chinese Embassy for assistance.

Editor: Futura Costaglione