Entrepreneurs expressed their concerns regarding the lack of clear information about the timelines and conditions of the move. Conflicting rumors have arisen among them, causing additional anxiety and distrust. Many do not know when exactly the move will take place, whether the old market will close, and under what conditions they will be offered new trading spaces.
One of the participants of the meeting pointed out a sharp decline in purchasing activity at the Osh Bazaar. According to him, the number of visitors has decreased, leading to a drop in sales, and current revenues do not cover expenses. Nevertheless, despite the lack of an official decision on closure, traders continue to receive fines.
Traders noted that the responsibility for the situation continues to be shifted to various organizations, creating confusion in obtaining answers to their questions.
In response to the voiced concerns, Kanibek Tumanbaev assured that the authorities do not plan a sudden or forced closure of the Osh Bazaar. He emphasized that the relocation can only take place after the construction of the new market is completed and all necessary conditions for traders to operate are created.
According to him, trade should continue at the old site until the new one is fully ready. The relocation will be carried out gradually and in an organized manner to avoid losses for businesses and revenues. All decisions will be communicated to entrepreneurs officially.
Photo 24.kg. Kanibek Tumanbaev
Commenting on questions about fines, Tumanbaev noted that the market continues its operations, and monitoring compliance with trading rules is the responsibility of municipal authorities. He also promised that traders' appeals would be further reviewed with the City Hall to eliminate unreasonable pressure on entrepreneurs.
The Chief of Staff of the President emphasized that the Osh market has significant social importance, as for many families, trade is the only source of income.
According to him, the authorities are interested in ensuring that the relocation process goes smoothly and without social conflicts.
It should be noted that the plans to relocate the Osh market were first announced by the authorities of Bishkek in 2023. The new market is being built in the northern part of the capital, away from the city center, and includes a large trading complex with covered pavilions, storage facilities, necessary engineering infrastructure, and parking.
In January 2026, it was reported that the implementation of trading spaces at the new site had begun. However, among entrepreneurs, there were concerns that the relocation might lead to the closure of the old market before the new one was completed, and that trading spaces would be provided on a paid basis.
