Street Vendors vs. Merchants: The 'Street War' Invades Night Markets

The establishment of a regulated night market during the festive season, combined with the authorization for merchants to showcase their products in front of their shops under certain conditions, has sparked intense reactions.

The authorities' decision, which also includes the participation of seasonal vendors in the night market from December 12 to January 5, 2026, is far from unanimous.

For the Merchants' Collective, the decision is incomprehensible. Its president, Raj Appadu, expressed surprise at an initiative he deems "tailored" to favor certain interests. He argues that the festive period is a crucial time for established businesses, which rely on increased customer flow to boost their annual revenue. "With the increased presence of street vendors and seasonal sellers, our opportunities are shrinking, while we continue to pay taxes, rents, and fixed costs," he explains. He describes the situation as a true "mess," denouncing what he sees as unfair competition between formal sector operators and those benefiting from temporary regulation during the holidays.

The Street Vendors Association highlights another aspect. Its representative, Hyder Raman, states that they do not oppose the principle of a night market but finds it unreasonable that already regulated street vendors are not allowed to participate, unlike seasonal sellers. For him, this measure effectively endorses illegality and does not genuinely protect small traders who comply with the rules.

In response to these criticisms, Lord Mayor Aslam Hossenaly defends the authorities' decision. He claims it was essential to regulate a situation that leads to tension and disorder in public spaces every year. He recalls that an Expression of Interest had been issued and that anyone wishing to work during the festive period had to inform the authorities accordingly.