Vendors operating within the Nabua Market are raising alarms about unfair competition stemming from sellers who conduct business outside the market. These external sellers are reportedly gaining an upper hand by avoiding table fees, which has led to significant concerns among those paying for their designated spaces.
Tadu Gaunavinaka, one of the market vendors, voiced his frustration about this imbalance, pointing out that many stalls remain empty because vendors cannot afford to keep their produce unsold for extended periods. “It’s a bit unfair because all these vendors are paying their tables, and you can see it’s all empty. They cannot afford to buy veggies and have them sit here for days, leading to losses,” Gaunavinaka noted. In response to this ongoing issue, vendors have appealed to local authorities for help.
“We’ve written to the council, and we’ve all signed a letter asking for action regarding the other vendors,” he explained, emphasizing the need for a level playing field. While acknowledging that all vendors face financial hardships, Gaunavinaka maintained that those who invest in market space deserve proper recognition and support.
Another vendor, Sereana Matanatabu, shared a similar sentiment, recalling how she faced challenges when starting her business near a supermarket at the Vatuwaqa bus stop. “When we first started selling here, council officers kept chasing us away, so we decided to take our request to the Prime Minister,” Matanatabu recounted.
The appeals from both groups highlight a collective effort to seek equitable treatment for all vendors while safeguarding their livelihoods. This situation reveals a growing recognition of the need for fair competition and support for local businesses, showcasing the significance of community collaboration and the effective role of local governance in creating an equitable market environment for everyone involved. The hope is to foster a thriving community where all vendors can compete fairly and build sustainable businesses.