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A significant dispute has erupted at Almaty's well-known 'Bazaar' market, with over 300 vendors refusing to vacate their trading containers following an eviction notice. The vendors fear losing their livelihoods and are protesting the closure of the market, which they have operated in for decades.

Vendors' Resistance to Eviction

The notice to close the market and clear the premises has been met with strong opposition from the affected entrepreneurs. Early this morning, the market gates were reportedly sealed, preventing vendors from removing their goods, which include clothing and footwear. Access to the market area is currently restricted, with banners indicating the market's closure and ongoing demolition work.

Concerns Over Livelihoods and Relocation

Vendors argue that the current market location is advantageous due to its accessibility and affordable rental rates, making it a profitable spot for their businesses. Many have been working here for 25 years, selling a variety of apparel for men, women, and children. They are determined to preserve their established workplaces.

According to the entrepreneurs, plans are in place to construct a shopping center on the site. They have been offered alternative trading spaces in a neighboring market, specifically in tent stalls. However, the vendors have rejected this proposal outright.

"We all have mortgages, children to feed, and families to support. How can we operate from tents? This is like the 90s! It's impossible to work from tents. We are against this offer. All of us are against it, yes?" stated entrepreneur Nargiz Mamedova.

Another vendor, Larisa Titova, expressed her frustration: "How can we sell from tents? Will we just put up tables? I have a container full of jackets. How do I fit them into a tent? It's ridiculous."

Authorities Cite Illegal Operations

Representatives from the city administration maintain that the vendors have been operating illegally at this location. They state that the lease agreement for the land expired eight years ago, and the plot was designated for public improvement purposes.

"In reality, an illegal market has been operating on this plot without permits, with poor sanitary conditions, and violations of fire safety regulations, with parts of it being used as storage. After the plot was transferred to the district administration for improvement in 2023, a personal claim was filed for the release of the territory. Alternative trading spaces with preferential terms will be offered to those willing to operate legally from neighboring markets," the press service of the Almaty City Administration reported.

While officials are offering alternative trading spots in nearby markets, the business owners remain unwilling to abandon their containers. They claim that rental fees in other markets are prohibitively expensive. The vendors have reportedly taken legal action regarding the matter.

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