
Global Food Vending Cart Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By End Use (Street Vendors, Festivals and Events, Public Transportation Areas, Parks and Recreation), By Product Type (Hot Food Vending Carts, Cold Food Vending Carts, Beverage Vending Carts, Snack Vending Carts), By Material Type (Metal, Wood, Plastic, Composite), By Size (Small, Medium, Large), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Food Vending Cart Market is projected to grow from USD 3.85 Billion in 2025 to USD 6.72 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 6.2% from 2026 through 2035. This market encompasses mobile or semi-mobile units designed for preparing and selling food and beverages, ranging from basic pushcarts to more sophisticated motorized units. The market is driven by several factors, including the increasing demand for convenient and affordable food options, the rising popularity of street food culture globally, and the entrepreneurial spirit fostering new small businesses. Furthermore, the low startup costs associated with food vending carts compared to traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants make them an attractive entry point for aspiring food entrepreneurs. The growing urbanization and increasing disposable incomes in developing economies also contribute significantly to market expansion. However, the market faces restraints such as stringent health and safety regulations, limited operating hours in some locations, and potential competition from established food service providers. Despite these challenges, the adaptability and mobility of food vending carts present substantial opportunities in catering to diverse events, tourist hotspots, and underserved urban areas.
Global Food Vending Cart Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035

2025 - 2035
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A prominent trend shaping the market is the increasing adoption of technology in food vending carts, including cashless payment systems, online ordering integration, and smart inventory management solutions. There's also a growing consumer preference for healthy and organic food options, leading to an expansion in specialized food cart offerings. The customization of carts for specific cuisines and branding is another notable trend, allowing vendors to differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape. In terms of market segmentation, the Street Vendors segment currently leads the market, highlighting the enduring appeal and accessibility of street food. The flexibility and low overheads associated with street vending make it a preferred model for many entrepreneurs. Innovation in cart design, incorporating sustainable materials and energy-efficient appliances, represents a key opportunity for manufacturers to attract environmentally conscious buyers. The development of modular and versatile cart designs that can be easily adapted for different food types and events will further enhance market growth.
Asia Pacific stands out as the dominant region in the global food vending cart market. This is primarily due to the region's deeply ingrained street food culture, high population density, rapid urbanization, and a large informal economy that relies heavily on mobile food businesses. The affordability and accessibility of street food make it a staple for millions across various income groups. Furthermore, Asia Pacific is also projected to be the fastest-growing region, driven by continuous economic development, increasing tourism, and a burgeoning middle class with evolving culinary preferences. Governments in some countries are also beginning to support small and medium-sized enterprises, including street vendors, through simplified licensing and infrastructure development, which further fuels growth. Key players in this market include CartKits, Carts of Colorado, Vending Nature, VendingCartShop, Vending World, Snack Star Vending, The Vending Cart Company, Café Cart, Masterbuilt, and Vending Solutions. These companies are focusing on product innovation, expanding their distribution networks, and offering customizable solutions to cater to the diverse needs of food entrepreneurs globally. Strategic partnerships and acquisitions are also common strategies employed to enhance market reach and product portfolios.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 3.85 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 6.72 BillionLeading Segment:
Street Vendors (42.8% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
Asia Pacific (44.2% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
6.2%
What is Food Vending Cart?
A Food Vending Cart is a mobile, self contained unit designed for preparing and selling food or beverages to consumers, typically on streets or at events. It functions as a small, portable kitchen or counter, allowing vendors to reach customers in various locations without needing a fixed storefront. Key components often include cooking equipment, storage space, display areas, and wheels for mobility. This type of cart is crucial for entrepreneurship, offering an accessible entry point into the food industry, supporting local economies, and providing convenient, often specialized, food options directly to the public in high traffic areas.
What are the Trends in Global Food Vending Cart Market
Hyperlocal Delights Vending on Demand
Smart Carts AI Powered Personalization
Sustainable Snacks Eco Friendly Mobility
Global Flavors Automated Authenticity
Health Conscious Robotics Nutrient Nudges
Hyperlocal Delights Vending on Demand
Hyperlocal Delights Vending on Demand signifies a growing consumer desire for immediate access to fresh, customized food from their local community. Vending carts are evolving beyond traditional snacks, now offering hot meals, gourmet coffee, specialized pastries, or even farm fresh produce sourced from nearby providers. These carts are mobile, appearing at offices during lunch, parks on weekends, or residential areas in the evening. The trend leverages technology for ordering and payment, allowing customers to request specific items and have them prepared and delivered by a nearby cart within minutes. This shift prioritizes convenience, quality, and a connection to local food scenes, making high quality food readily available wherever people are, without the need for a full service restaurant experience.
Smart Carts AI Powered Personalization
Smart Carts AI Powered Personalization is revolutionizing the Global Food Vending Cart Market by transforming the customer experience. These carts leverage artificial intelligence to analyze individual preferences, purchase history, and even real time data like weather or time of day. Imagine a cart that recognizes you and immediately suggests your usual coffee, or offers a chilled drink on a hot afternoon, knowing your past choices. This predictive capability allows vendors to dynamically adjust inventory and offer tailored promotions, increasing impulse buys and customer satisfaction. The AI driven system can also learn from collective data, identifying popular combinations or emerging trends, empowering vendors to optimize their offerings. This personalized interaction fosters greater loyalty and engagement, moving beyond generic vending to a more intelligent and responsive service model.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Food Vending Cart Market
Rising Consumer Demand for On-the-Go Food Options
Increasing Urbanization and Foot Traffic in Public Spaces
Technological Advancements in Vending Cart Features and Operations
Growing Entrepreneurial Spirit and Low Entry Barrier for Food Cart Businesses
Expansion of Tourism and Event Industries Driving Mobile Food Service Demand
Rising Consumer Demand for On-the-Go Food Options
The increasing pace of modern lifestyles fuels a significant shift in consumer eating habits. Individuals are seeking convenient and quick meal solutions that fit their busy schedules, often opting for food they can consume while traveling, commuting, or during short breaks. This surging desire for immediate gratification and ease of access has positioned on the the go food as a primary choice for many. Food vending carts cater perfectly to this demand by offering readily available, pre packaged, or quickly prepared items in high traffic locations. They provide a convenient alternative to traditional restaurants or grocery stores, allowing consumers to grab a snack or a meal without significant time investment. This convenience factor is a powerful stimulant for market expansion.
Increasing Urbanization and Foot Traffic in Public Spaces
Urbanization fuels a concentration of people in cities, leading to denser public spaces like parks, plazas, and transit hubs. This increased foot traffic directly translates into more potential customers for food vending carts. As urban populations grow and lifestyles become faster paced, the demand for convenient, accessible food options rises. People commuting, running errands, or enjoying leisure time in these bustling areas seek quick and satisfying meals or snacks. Food carts are ideally positioned to meet this need, offering diverse culinary choices right where people are gathered. This symbiotic relationship between denser urban environments and the convenience of mobile food options makes increasing urbanization a powerful driver for the vending cart market.
Technological Advancements in Vending Cart Features and Operations
Technological advancements are revolutionizing food vending carts, significantly driving market expansion. Innovations encompass improved energy efficiency through solar panels and advanced battery systems, extending operating hours and reducing costs. Touchscreen interfaces, mobile payment integration like QR codes, and preordering apps enhance customer convenience and speed of service. Automated food preparation mechanisms and smart inventory management systems optimize operational efficiency, minimize waste, and ensure product availability. GPS tracking and remote monitoring capabilities allow operators to manage multiple carts effectively and identify high-demand locations. Furthermore, advancements in food safety and hygiene technologies, such as automated cleaning systems and temperature control, boost consumer confidence. These integrated technologies collectively create more efficient, convenient, and appealing vending cart experiences, attracting a wider customer base and empowering vendors with greater operational flexibility and profitability.
Global Food Vending Cart Market Restraints
Lack of Robust Cold Chain Logistics
Lack of robust cold chain logistics significantly constrains the global food vending cart market's growth. Many popular food items sold in these carts, like dairy products, fresh produce, and cooked meats, require precise temperature control to ensure safety and quality. Without a reliable cold chain that extends to the point of sale, vendors struggle to maintain the required temperatures, leading to spoilage, waste, and increased operational costs. This limitation restricts the variety of perishable foods that can be offered, deterring potential customers who seek fresh and diverse options. Furthermore, concerns about foodborne illnesses due to inadequate temperature management can damage consumer trust and hinder widespread adoption of vending carts, particularly in regions with hot climates or poor infrastructure. This logistical gap directly impacts the profitability and expansion potential of businesses relying on these mobile food solutions.
Stringent Food Safety and Hygiene Regulations
Stringent food safety and hygiene regulations pose a significant hurdle for the global food vending cart market. These regulations, often varying by country and even city, mandate strict adherence to standards for food preparation, storage, and handling. Vendors must invest in specific equipment like refrigerated units, handwashing stations, and enclosed cooking areas to prevent cross contamination and maintain appropriate temperatures. Obtaining necessary permits and licenses involves rigorous inspections and adherence to sanitation protocols.
Compliance requires ongoing training for staff on hygienic practices, allergen awareness, and waste disposal. Documentation of ingredient sourcing, expiration dates, and cleaning schedules adds to the operational burden. Failure to meet these demanding standards can result in hefty fines, permit revocation, and damage to reputation, making it challenging for smaller, independent vendors to compete and expand their reach. These regulations increase initial setup costs and ongoing operational expenses, impacting profitability.
Global Food Vending Cart Market Opportunities
Smart Vending & Digital Payments: Enhancing Convenience and Reach for Food Cart Operators
The integration of smart vending technologies and digital payment solutions presents a significant opportunity for food cart operators globally. These innovations dramatically enhance operational convenience and customer reach. Smart vending systems can automate order taking, inventory management, and even food dispensing, reducing labor costs and human error while ensuring consistent service quality. Operators gain real time insights into sales and stock, optimizing their supply chains. Simultaneously, embracing digital payment methods such as mobile wallets and contactless cards broadens the customer base significantly. This is especially potent in regions like Asia Pacific, where digital adoption is surging. Customers benefit from faster, more secure transactions, eliminating the need for physical cash. For operators, this means quicker service times, improved hygiene, and a more professional image. The ability to accept diverse payment types and operate more autonomously expands market penetration, allowing carts to serve new locations or extend operating hours without constant manual oversight. This dual approach modernizes traditional food vending, driving efficiency and profitability for operators eager to scale and adapt to evolving consumer preferences.
Sustainable & Speciality Carts: Capitalizing on Health, Eco-Conscious, and Niche Culinary Demands
The global food vending cart market offers a compelling opportunity in sustainable and speciality carts. Growing consumer awareness regarding health, environmental impact, and unique culinary experiences is reshaping demand. Sustainable carts, integrating eco-friendly materials, energy efficient operations, or waste reduction systems, directly address the eco-conscious trend. These innovative solutions allow vendors to meet green standards and attract discerning customers who prioritize environmental responsibility.
Concurrently, a strong appetite exists for niche culinary offerings. Speciality carts can cater to specific dietary preferences like vegan or gluten-free, or deliver unique gourmet concepts, exotic cuisines, and artisanal products. This differentiation allows vendors to transcend traditional street food, command premium pricing, and cultivate strong brand loyalty. Capitalizing on these evolving preferences for healthy, environmentally responsible, and distinctive gastronomic adventures positions businesses for substantial growth, particularly as consumer tastes rapidly diversify.
Global Food Vending Cart Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Product Type
- •Hot Food Vending Carts
- •Cold Food Vending Carts
- •Beverage Vending Carts
- •Snack Vending Carts
By End Use
- •Street Vendors
- •Festivals and Events
- •Public Transportation Areas
- •Parks and Recreation
By Material Type
- •Metal
- •Wood
- •Plastic
- •Composite
By Size
- •Small
- •Medium
- •Large
Segment Share By Product Type
Share, By Product Type, 2025 (%)
- Beverage Vending Carts
- Snack Vending Carts
- Hot Food Vending Carts
- Cold Food Vending Carts

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Why is the Street Vendors end use segment dominating the Global Food Vending Cart Market?
The Street Vendors segment holds a substantial majority share due to the fundamental role vending carts play in their business model. Carts offer these entrepreneurs mobility, affordability, and a direct point of sale, enabling them to reach diverse customer bases in urban and high traffic areas without the overhead of fixed establishments. Their adaptability to various food types and locations solidifies their essential position for countless street food operations globally.
What product types are most impactful in the Global Food Vending Cart Market?
Hot Food Vending Carts significantly drive demand, catering to popular street food like hot dogs, grilled items, and prepared meals that require on the spot heating or serving. However, Beverage Vending Carts and Snack Vending Carts also hold substantial influence. These carts address the widespread need for quick refreshments and grab and go items, particularly in high foot traffic areas like parks and festivals, complementing the offerings of hot food vendors.
How do material type and size influence the Global Food Vending Cart Market?
Material type is critical for durability, hygiene, and aesthetics. Metal carts are highly prevalent due to their robustness, ease of cleaning, and longevity, making them a practical choice for intensive daily use. Size segments cater to varied operational scales; small carts prioritize mobility for individual vendors, while medium and large carts offer greater capacity for food preparation and storage, suitable for events or busier locations with higher demand.
What Regulatory and Policy Factors Shape the Global Food Vending Cart Market
The global food vending cart market operates within a highly fragmented and dynamic regulatory landscape. Food safety and hygiene standards represent the most pervasive and stringent regulations, requiring diverse health permits, food handler certifications, and strict sanitation protocols varying significantly by country and municipality. Operators must adhere to specific requirements for food storage temperatures, ingredient sourcing, and waste management. Location and zoning present critical regulatory hurdles, necessitating specific street vending permits, designated operating zones, and adherence to public space usage restrictions. Business licensing, operational hour limits, and taxation policies also vary widely, impacting market entry and operational viability. Furthermore, environmental regulations concerning packaging materials and waste disposal are increasingly influencing design and operation choices globally, pushing for sustainable practices. Navigating this intricate web of permits, health inspections, and local ordinances is crucial for market success.
What New Technologies are Shaping Global Food Vending Cart Market?
The global food vending cart market is being revolutionized by significant technological advancements. Smart cart integration, leveraging IoT sensors, provides real time inventory tracking, predictive maintenance, and optimized temperature control, ensuring food safety and reducing operational inefficiencies. AI driven analytics are personalizing customer recommendations and optimizing route planning for vendors, enhancing sales and user experience. Automated food preparation and dispensing systems are gaining traction, promising quicker service, greater consistency, and improved hygiene standards.
Sustainable technologies, including solar powered carts and advanced battery storage, are reducing environmental impact and operational costs. Contactless payment solutions and mobile ordering apps are becoming standard, streamlining transactions and boosting customer convenience. Furthermore, sophisticated navigation and geolocation services are enabling dynamic cart positioning to capitalize on peak demand areas. These innovations collectively are transforming vending carts into highly efficient, intelligent, and consumer centric mobile food platforms, fostering significant market expansion.
Global Food Vending Cart Market Regional Analysis
Global Food Vending Cart Market
Trends, by Region

Asia-Pacific Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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Dominant Region
Asia Pacific · 44.2% share
Asia Pacific emerges as the dominant region in the global food vending cart market, commanding a significant 44.2% share. This leadership is primarily driven by the region's vast and dense populations, particularly in developing economies. Rapid urbanization and the growing middle class contribute to an increased demand for convenient and affordable on the go food options. Furthermore, the robust street food culture prevalent across many Asian countries naturally fosters a thriving ecosystem for food vending carts. Ease of entry for small businesses and relatively lower operational costs compared to brick and mortar establishments also bolster the region's market strength. Innovation in cart design and payment methods further solidifies its dominant position.
Fastest Growing Region
Asia Pacific · 9.2% CAGR
Asia Pacific is poised to be the fastest growing region in the global food vending cart market, exhibiting a robust CAGR of 9.2% from 2026 to 2035. This accelerated expansion is fueled by several key factors. Rapid urbanization across developing economies like India and Southeast Asian nations is driving demand for convenient street food options. A burgeoning middle class with increasing disposable incomes is also contributing to higher consumer spending on ready to eat meals. Government initiatives supporting small businesses and street vendors coupled with technological advancements in mobile food preparation are further propelling market growth. The region's vibrant food culture and high population density create an ideal environment for the proliferation of food vending carts.
Top Countries Overview
The US remains a significant, though not dominant, player in the global food vending cart market. Domestically, food trucks and carts are booming, driven by entrepreneurship and consumer demand for diverse, convenient options. Globally, American models influence design and culinary trends, yet face strong competition from established local markets and emerging Asian manufacturers. The US contributes to innovation in technology and food safety, influencing global standards.
China's role in the global food vending cart market is dynamic. Traditionally a manufacturer of affordable carts for domestic use and export, it's now seeing a rise in high-tech, smart vending solutions. This shift caters to a burgeoning internal market for convenience and global demand for advanced, automated food service. China is both a major producer and an increasingly sophisticated consumer in this evolving sector.
India's presence in the global food vending cart market is burgeoning, fueled by its street food culture and entrepreneurial spirit. Local manufacturers are adapting designs for international appeal, focusing on hygiene and technology integration. While still a niche, Indian innovation, particularly in mobile kitchens and sustainable materials, is gaining traction, positioning it as an emerging player with strong growth potential.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical tensions, particularly those impacting global grain supplies and fertilizer costs, directly influence food prices for vending cart operators. Trade policies, including tariffs on imported food ingredients or components for carts, can increase operational expenses. Local political stability and regulations regarding street vendors significantly shape market access; restrictive permits or outright bans can decimate local markets while supportive policies foster growth. Geopolitical shifts causing population displacements also create demand for affordable, accessible food options offered by these carts.
Macroeconomic factors like inflation erode profit margins if not passed on to consumers, potentially impacting demand. Disposable income levels are crucial; in areas with rising incomes, demand for convenient food often grows, boosting vending cart sales. Conversely, economic downturns can shift consumer spending towards cheaper, more accessible options like those provided by carts. Exchange rate fluctuations affect the cost of imported ingredients or cart parts, impacting overall profitability. Labor costs and food safety regulations also impose significant economic considerations for operators.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
CartKits announced a strategic partnership with major food delivery platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash. This collaboration aims to integrate CartKits' smart vending carts directly into the delivery network, offering automated, on-demand food options in high-traffic urban areas.
- January 2025
Vending Nature launched its new 'Eco-Cart' line, featuring solar-powered refrigeration and compostable packaging options. This product launch directly addresses the growing consumer demand for sustainable and environmentally friendly food vending solutions.
- November 2024
The Vending Cart Company acquired Snack Star Vending, a leading manufacturer of specialized snack and beverage carts. This acquisition is expected to significantly expand The Vending Cart Company's product portfolio and market share in the ready-to-eat snack segment.
- February 2025
Vending World unveiled its 'AI-Powered Predictive Stocking System' for all new cart models. This strategic initiative uses machine learning to analyze sales data and local events, optimizing inventory levels and reducing waste for vending cart operators.
- April 2025
Café Cart announced a product launch of their 'Micro-Kitchen Cart,' designed for compact spaces and offering automated preparation of hot meals. This innovative cart features robotic arms for precise ingredient dispensing and cooking, targeting office buildings and small venues.
Key Players Analysis
Key players in the Global Food Vending Cart Market include CartKits and Carts of Colorado, known for custom fabrication and durable designs, leveraging advanced materials and modular construction for diverse food offerings. Vending Nature and Snack Star Vending focus on sustainable and efficient mobile solutions, integrating energy efficient appliances and smart inventory management for quick service. The Vending Cart Company and Café Cart emphasize aesthetic appeal and brandability, utilizing lightweight materials and customizable facades to attract customers. Masterbuilt and Vending Solutions provide versatile carts with innovative features like integrated refrigeration and heating systems. Strategic initiatives often involve expanding customization options, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing mobility to capitalize on the growing demand for convenient and specialized food experiences in various locations, driving market growth through innovation and adaptability.
List of Key Companies:
- CartKits
- Carts of Colorado
- Vending Nature
- VendingCartShop
- Vending World
- Snack Star Vending
- The Vending Cart Company
- Café Cart
- Masterbuilt
- Vending Solutions
- Jimmy's Vending
- Suncast
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 3.85 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 6.72 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 6.2% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Size, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Size, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Size, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Size, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Size, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Product Type, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Material Type, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Size, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Food Vending Cart Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
