Many people think bartering is a thing of the past, but it’s still happening in some countries today.
Bartering is one of the oldest ways of doing business. Instead of using money, people trade goods or services directly. Long ago, if someone had extra food but needed clothes, they would swap with someone who had extra fabric.
While most of the world now uses money, some places still rely on bartering. In some cases, it’s because of economic struggles or high inflation. In others, it’s simply part of their culture and way of life. Bartering helps communities share resources and survive without needing cash.
Here are five places where bartering is still used today:
1. Venezuela
Venezuela’s economy has suffered from extreme inflation, meaning money loses its value quickly. Many people can’t afford basic necessities, so they trade goods instead.
For example, someone with extra rice might exchange it for cooking oil, or a person with soap might swap it for sugar. In rural areas, bartering has become a lifeline, helping people get what they need without relying on unstable currency.
2. Iran
Iran faces tough economic sanctions, making it hard to trade with other countries. To get around this, Iran sometimes trades its oil for essential goods instead of using money.
While this type of bartering happens mostly at a government level, it plays a big role in keeping Iran’s economy running.
3. Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe has faced serious inflation in the past, making its currency nearly worthless at times. In response, many communities—especially in rural areas—turned to bartering.
People trade items like livestock, grain, and vegetables to get what they need. Although Zimbabwe has made efforts to fix its economy, bartering still exists in some parts of the country.
4. Papua New Guinea
In Papua New Guinea, bartering is a long-standing tradition. People in rural areas often exchange fish, crops, and handmade goods instead of using money.
Some communities even use shells as a form of currency. Here, bartering isn’t just about necessity—it’s also a cultural practice that strengthens community bonds.
5. Cuba
In Cuba, economic restrictions and shortages make bartering a useful way to get essentials. People often trade food, household items, and even services.
For example, someone with extra eggs might trade them for rice, or a mechanic might fix a bicycle in exchange for fresh vegetables. Bartering allows people to access goods that are difficult to buy with money alone.
A Timeless System
Bartering may not be as common as it once was, but it still plays an important role in many places. Whether it’s due to economic challenges or cultural traditions, this ancient practice continues to help people meet their daily needs.