Mexico City officials urge street vendors to accept new Alameda Central rules

Mexico City officials are appealing to informal street vendors to embrace new regulations for Alameda Central, a cherished public park. Adolfo Llubere, the capital's undersecretary for mayoral programs and public space reorganization, stated that accepting the new rules is crucial for "building a base" to later assess the commerce situation in the area. This call comes after a week of street blockades by vendors who are unhappy with proposals to limit each group to seven vending spots.

Llubere emphasized that vendors must recognize the negative impact their current practices have on the park. He suggested that starting with a regulated presence, even if limited, is preferable to disruptive street blockades. While acknowledging the right to protest, he clarified that selling goods on the street is not permitted. The government aims to prioritize dialogue, urging protesting vendors to also respect the public's right to movement by clearing blocked roadways.

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First, we will see how it works. We need to stabilize Alameda Central. We need to see how it looks with these 70, 72 stalls in an orderly manner. Let them rotate, because each aisle is different.

Regarding the specific number of vendors allowed, Llubere indicated a wait-and-see approach. "First, we will see how it works. We need to stabilize Alameda Central. We need to see how it looks with these 70, 72 stalls in an orderly manner. Let them rotate, because each aisle is different," he explained. He also requested that vendors comply with designated rest days (Tuesdays and Wednesdays), maintain cleanliness in their work areas, and accept responsibility for any harm caused to park visitors.

Furthermore, vendors will receive training on food handling to meet standards set by the Health Protection Agency. The new regulations also extend to feminist collectives, who are being informed about the new guidelines to prevent unauthorized commerce. While Alameda Central was free of vendors and protests on Wednesday, surveillance continues. The government is also implementing preventative measures to ensure compliance with the new order.

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Today there must be a name and signature of who is exercising commerce, so that in a situation of risk or violence we also know who is responsible.