PORTALJABAR, GARUT REGENCY - The Regent of Garut visited Guntur Ciawitali Market on Jalan Merdeka, Tarogong Kidul District, Garut Regency (8/5/2025) as an initial step in improving traditional markets.

This visit was a response to data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) which highlighted the importance of household spending in markets as a major driver of the regional economy.

During his visit, the Regent of Garut expressed his commitment to inventory and resolve various problems faced by Guntur Ciawitali Market.

"So, according to BPS, one of the economic boosters is household spending in the market. We want to see the market conditions directly and find solutions to the various problems that exist," he said.

The Regent emphasized that the solution would be implemented in stages, starting with controlling street vendors (PKL) who sell outside the market area.

"At least we will instruct traders outside Jalan Merdeka to stop selling before a certain time. We hope they will enter the market so that market activities will be more lively," he said.

In addition to controlling street vendors, the Garut Regency Government will begin improving market infrastructure, with priority given to improving drainage.

The government also plans to record empty kiosks and offer them to street vendors so they can sell in the market.

The Head of the Industry and Trade, Energy and Mineral Resources Service (Disperindag ESDM) of Garut Regency said that this step is in line with the Regent's vision to strengthen the regional economy through revitalization of traditional markets.

"He is committed to revitalizing the traditional markets in Garut Regency, and Guntur Market as the main market is a priority. This year we are planning to revitalize the roads and market drainage," said the Head of the Garut Regency ESDM Trade and Industry Office.

He hopes that the arrangement of roads and drainage will have a positive impact on the order of traders, including along Jalan Merdeka.

"It is hoped that this effort will have an impact on the arrangement of traders to be more orderly and able to work together well with Guntur Market management," he said.

The Head of the Market Residents Association (IWAPA) of Guntur Ciawitali Market welcomed the government's attention. He expressed his emotion and gratitude for the market arrangement plan that will be carried out. (Garut Communication and Information Service/Fau)