Temporary market for farmers to open for Ramadan

The Ministry of Agriculture has announced the establishment of a temporary market in Male for Maldivian farmers’ produce ahead of the upcoming month of Ramadan and has opened applications for vendors from Wednesday.

In a circular issued to island councils on Wednesday, the ministry said the market will be set up to provide a sales platform for local farmers. Farmers interested in selling produce at the market have been asked to submit application forms by 29 January.

The ministry has also issued rules governing the operation of the temporary market and the sale of goods.

According to the rules, the market will open from 4:00 pm on 15 February. Vendors are required to maintain records of goods sold and submit them to the ministry.

Only raw fruits and vegetables produced in the islands may be sold at the market. Processed items, including products such as rihaakuru, will not be permitted for sale.

The rules state that foreign nationals will not be allowed to operate stalls at the market.

Vendors are not permitted to place goods outside their allocated stalls. Items must be displayed on clean surfaces at least two feet above the floor. Hard produce, including coconuts, watermelons and pumpkins, may be placed on the floor.

Waste generated during trading must be collected and disposed of in designated areas.

The market will operate throughout the month of Ramadan and will be open daily from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm, except during prayer times.