As countries report mounting cases of the COVID-19, the outbreak presents them and the global community with unprecedented challenges in recent times. FAO monitors the experience of those heavily affected by the pandemic looking at the immediate impacts and the mitigation measures of countries in responding to the crisis. Drawing from the experience of Italy in dealing with the outbreak, this article aims to inform policy makers on response options, best practices and lessons learned. Particular attention in the review is given to small-scale producers and their access to markets.