Ceagesp pavilion fire and recovery efforts

Following a fire on September 5 that destroyed the MFE-A pavilion at Ceagesp in São Paulo, the company has initiated emergency relief measures for over one hundred affected businesses. The blaze destroyed approximately 320 fruit commercialization boxes, leading merchants to report a sales drop of roughly 50%.

To support retailers, restaurants, and packaging companies, Ceagesp has waived rents and fees, refunded previous payments, and reinforced local infrastructure with security, lighting, and internet.

As of October 7, Ceagesp is finalizing a temporary workspace for 124 affected merchants, which is scheduled to open on October 16. This structure will consist of two large tents covering 4,800 square meters. While this area is smaller than the original 6,000 square meter pavilion, the reorganization aims to provide refrigerated containers and improved bathroom facilities to replace the unsanitary canvas tents where merchants have been facing heat, rain, and logistical difficulties. The temporary site will be located one block away from the original site.

Ceagesp will continue to waive fees for these merchants until the permanent pavilion is delivered. While cleaning and damage assessments began in mid-September, the full reconstruction of the permanent, modernized pavilion is estimated to be completed by September 2027. The new design is expected to feature higher ceilings, mezzanines, and an elevated commercial area to prevent future flood damage. Meanwhile, FecomercioSP has called for a broader revitalization of Ceagesp, advocating for modernized warehouses, electrical networks, and fire prevention systems.