San Camilo market vendors demand privatization of stalls in Arequipa

Vendors and tenants of the San Camilo market in Arequipa have marched to the Provincial Municipality of Arequipa (MPA) to demand the completion of the stall privatization process. The group is calling for the implementation of Law No. 32738, which was published in July and establishes a six-month deadline for municipalities to conclude privatization processes for municipal markets that were previously initiated.

Cosme Casos Vilca, general secretary of the San Camilo Market Workers Association, stated that the municipality has yet to form the commission required to proceed with the legal requirements. The privatization effort aims to allow approximately 500 to 900 tenants to become owners of their commercial spaces, which they argue would enable them to invest in modernizing their stalls and improving service.

According to the merchants, about 30% of the stalls were transferred to private owners approximately 20 years ago. They clarified that the request does not include the market's historical monument components, such as the four facades, the roof, or the metal pillars. Additionally, vendors are seeking clarity on the reversion of stalls from deceased holders and regulations regarding gas stove usage in food sections.