Over 30% of market stalls still empty despite revitalization efforts

The Municipal Affairs Bureau (IAM) reported that 329 of 1,063 stalls across eight markets – about 31% – remain unoccupied, according to a response to lawmaker Ngan Iek Hang.

The highest concentration of unused spaces can be found in the Iao Hon District Market, St. Lawrence Market, and São Domingos Market.

Vacancies also extend beyond the markets themselves. Around 100 street vending tents, or about 17% of available spaces, remain idle in key areas such as the surroundings of São Domingos Market, Fai Chi Kei, and Fernão Mendes Pinto Street.

To address the problem, IAM said it has rolled out a number of market improvement initiatives, including launching public tenders for vacant stalls and upgrading facilities to make the spaces more appealing to both vendors and consumers.

In recent years, tenders were held for Horta da Mitra Market, Patane Food Center, and Taipa Market, offering a total of 35 stalls to new applicants.

Authorities are also developing new stall formats to attract younger business owners and diversify offerings, reflecting shifting consumer habits. These efforts, IAM noted, are meant to “inject fresh energy into municipal markets.”

The bureau confirmed that Tamagnini Barbosa Market is next in line for redevelopment, with works expected to begin next year. The project aims to create a more modern environment by redesigning layouts, improving facilities, and adding a food center.

The new design will also include a walkway linking the market to the Citizens’ Sports Garden and the Toi Fai Building car park.