Market vendors in the Capital City are voicing their hopes for better support in the upcoming national budget.
As they grapple with various personal financial challenges, the vendors highlighted the need for improved market facilities.
Many markets suffer from inadequate sanitation and covered areas, which can deter customers and make the vendors’ working conditions difficult.
They said upgraded facilities would not only enhance the shopping experience but also help vendors attract and retain more customers.
“We need better facilities, especially clean water and proper shelter,” said Jese Tuivaga, a vendor in Suva.
“When it rains, our produce gets spoiled, and it’s hard to keep our stalls clean.”
Another key demand is better access to loans.
Small business loans can be a lifeline for market vendors looking to expand their operations or improve their product offerings.
However, many vendors said they find the present loan processes are difficult to navigate. Simplifying access to these loans could empower vendors to grow their businesses and contribute more robustly to the local economy.
“Access to small loans would allow us to buy better produce and even hire more help,” said Litia Roko, a seafood vendor.
“The current process is too complicated and often out of reach for us.”
Additionally, market vendors are calling for enhanced security measures within the market areas. Increased security would help protect their goods and ensure a safer shopping environment for customers.
“Better security is essential,” said another vendor.
“We’ve had issues with theft, and knowing there’s more protection would give us peace of mind.”
As the Government prepares its new budget, market vendors are hopeful that their needs will be addressed, ensuring a more supportive environment for the role they play in the community.
