Extra markets for year end

JAKARTA (JP): In anticipation of increased demand for basic commodities for the upcoming Christmas, New Year and Idul Fitri celebrations, the city administration will establish a number of temporary markets throughout the capital next month.

Head of the City Informal Vendors and Services, Jaya Sukmana, said on Wednesday that the markets would be organized in the parking lots of the National Monument (Monas) in Central Jakarta and in front of the mayoralties' offices and sport facilities.

"We are also coordinating with suppliers to meet public demands for lower prices, such as Indofood, ABC, Khong Guan, Tropical and Sosro," said Jaya citing food and beverage companies.

Jaya said vendors could utilize the market for free. They will be provided with tents and chairs and tables. He said 140 vendors signed up to participate in the market at Monas to be held on Dec. 7 to Dec. 9.

He said the site could accommodate about 250 vendors and added that the city had allocated Rp 25 million for the Monas market. (07)