For the city authorities, the project to relocate the Osh market is a step towards improving the situation in Bishkek; for tourists, it is a new exotic location; and for many sellers, it is the only way to support their families. While discussions about the relocation continue, reporters from 24.kg visited the market to hear the opinions of those who do not know what steps to take in the future. Why are some entrepreneurs ready for change while others are on the brink of closure? And why is this situation not only about rent but also about trust in the authorities?
Market Situation: What Is Known About the Upcoming Relocation
A few years ago, the authorities announced their intention to move the market from the city center. The new Osh market, which is being built near the MTU "Prigorodnoye," is nearing completion, but the details of the relocation remain unclear.
According to traders, the authorities previously claimed that all current sellers would receive free spots at the new market with improved conditions. However, recent reports about the sale of trading spots and commercial spaces in the new complex have raised serious concerns.
Entrepreneurs are actively sharing video appeals on social media.
They emphasize that they have been working legally for many years, paying taxes and fees, and many of them are in debt. In such a situation, purchasing new spots becomes almost impossible.
People are appealing to the Bishkek city hall for official clarifications about the plans for relocating the market, as well as to clarify the conditions for providing trading spots and guarantees for current entrepreneurs.
Trading Spot: Free Promises vs. Commercial Advertisements
Traders at the Osh market informed reporters from 24.kg that they have sent an appeal to President Sadyr Japarov asking for clarification on whether they will have spots at the new Osh market. The petition has been signed by more than 500 people who are asking not to deprive them of their jobs and to provide spaces in the new complex in case the old market closes.
According to entrepreneurs, their appeal has been accepted, and they were promised a response within 14 working days. Sellers also inquired whether they could organize peaceful protests if the response does not satisfy them. In response, they were told that this is their constitutional right, but such events must take place in designated areas, such as the M. Gorky Park in Bishkek.
We spoke with sellers and buyers to find out if they are ready to move to the new Osh market — some for work, and others for shopping.
“I have several loans, and if I lose my job, I just don’t know what to do,” shares one entrepreneur.
Another seller, who works in the clothing section, considers the Osh market to be a second national treasure after Issyk-Kul. He notes that tourists love to stroll through the aisles, but if the conditions at the new location are better, many of them are ready to move.
“We want to work in comfortable conditions, where it is warm in winter and cool in summer, so we are waiting for proposals from the management of the new facility and are ready to relocate,” say the traders.
Voices from the Market: From Optimism to the Threat of Closing Pet Shops
Many buyers come to the Osh market from afar, for example, from the village of Nizhnechuyiskoye. However, if there is convenient transportation to the new market and prices remain the same as now, they are willing to travel there.
“It’s inexpensive here, and you can buy everything in bulk; there’s more selection than in stores. If the market moves, it will be inconvenient, but what can we do — we’ll have to go there. The main thing is that there is good transportation. I hope it will be orderly there; look at the conditions in which people trade here,” shares one visitor's opinion.
A man who has worked as a porter at the market for over 20 years is accustomed to it, but if a move is necessary, he would gladly work there as well.
There is a popular spice seller at the Osh market, who has queues forming on weekends. He not only sells but also shares advice with customers. He started with selling fish and vegetables but has dedicated most of his time to spices. When asked about his readiness to move to the new market, he replied, “You have to eat — where else can you go?”
However, the pet supply store is likely to close with the relocation of the Osh market: who will go to the Prigorodnoye area for a parrot or cat food?
“For us, moving to a new location will be unprofitable. By the time it gets established and people get used to it — it’s easier to close down. They say there’s a lot of dirt here, but if people don’t litter, there won’t be any dirt,” believes the store owner.
Old Market or New? Awaiting a Decision
The situation with the relocation of the Osh market remains uncertain. On one side is the construction of a new trading complex, and on the other are thousands of people for whom the market is the only source of income and a familiar part of life.
Both sellers and buyers agree on one thing: relocation is only possible with clear and transparent conditions, accessible transportation infrastructure, and the preservation of social prices at the market.
Until official clarifications are received, the uncertainty heightens the anxiety of entrepreneurs and generates rumors. In this situation, dialogue between the city authorities and traders is critically important, as it affects not only the fate of one of the most famous markets in the capital but also the well-being of thousands of families.
