Endorse street vending

THERE has been an influx of street selling and buying within the perimeter of public utility in Papua New Guinea.
These markets are considered illegal where authorities enforce strict measures by chasing venders from the vicinity.
However, the demand for their goods allow them to operate despite actions taken against their operations.
Where there is an influx of people, there’s more circulation of money, and street vendors seek to capitalise on that opportunity.
The question that arise in street vendors’ mind is “how can I get a share of the penny in their pocket at doorstep or vicinity of the facility?” This paved way for them to operate despite the legal precautions.
They operate on the streets, bus stops, office building, public carpark, beach, hotels, business houses, traffic lights and where there is regular movement of people.
This form of market is unlike the designated market in certain locations. There is a need in this area for customer’s convenience.
There are some beneficial prospect of street vending and the government could regulate it to operate within the public space.
The opportunity where the street vendors see on such public and private assets to make money is an attraction force.
Property owners (public and private) discourage street vending because it contributes to unhealthy or eyesore physical environment.
However, it could be regulated for improvements.
The beneficial aspect of street vending within public space for the vendors and customers include:

• Market force – the frequent movement of people is a significant opportunity for street vendors to capitalise on;
• easy access to the users of private and public facilities which is convenient to customers. To access from a close location can save time, money, reduce risk for their customers;
• revenue generation – the informal sector will have better revenue generation to sustain themselves daily;
• reduced law and order issues – criminal activities such as pickpocketing, stealing and other activities with the intention to make easy money could be reduced;

Where there is an influx of people – in a private and public property – there is a need for a market facility.
Private and public property owners cannot stop the market force in the economy.
Where people congregate there is common understanding that money circulates and street vendors see the prospect of making money. They operate despite restrictions.
The authorities need to ensure measures are imposed to regulate street vending at public places.
There is a lack of waste management system, authorities need to put rubbish bins.
For entry into such properties/facilities, street vendors need to follow a set of requirements. Fees have to be paid to the authorities for entry and fines endorsed at a manageable rate with other regulations.
Street vendors are prone to police brutality from law enforcing authorities.
However, one who can understand the struggles felt to survive in a world centred around money.

Paul Nero