Playa del Carmen Ends Favoritism in Market Concessions

Playa del Carmen, Mexico — The municipal government is taking steps to eliminate favoritism and political quotas in the assignment of concessions within local markets, according to Antón Bojórquez, Secretary of Economic Development and Investment Attraction. Officials are working on new regulations to standardize the leasing process for these commercial spaces.

Socially Priced Leases with Conditions

In an interview, Bojórquez explained that authorities are considering leasing market stalls at a reduced "social cost"—significantly below standard commercial rates—provided vendors comply with service payments and obtain proper operating licenses.

"What we’re doing first is putting the legal framework in order. It’s not highly visible, but it’s very important," he emphasized.

Challenges in Regularizing the 'Diana Laura Riojas' Market

The secretary acknowledged that the "Diana Laura Riojas" market, located in the Luis Donaldo Colosio neighborhood, will be the most difficult to regulate. Many of its existing concessions were granted under the old system of favoritism.

"It was common practice for markets to be handed out as political favors to friends, and that has to change," he added.

Revoking Irregular Concessions

Bojórquez noted that some concessions had been fully paid off, while others were sold illegally or left unused. All such irregular concessions will be revoked.

"We’re going to assign stalls to vendors who are actually working. That’s crucial because previously, concessions often went to speculators who would just rent them out to someone else," he stated.

Progress in Bellavista Neighborhood Market

Regarding the Bellavista neighborhood market, the secretary reported significant progress in regularizing stalls. Currently, 30 of the market’s 100 available spaces are operational.