Rice, beans, and sardines among most sought-after products at IMA fair in Bugaba

Thousands of people flocked to a fair organized by the Agricultural Marketing Institute (IMA) in Bugaba, Chiriquí, eager to purchase basic food basket products at more affordable prices. Residents from surrounding communities, including Volcán, Cerro Punta, and Renacimiento, traveled to the event to take advantage of the special offers on essential foods.

The fair saw high demand for staples such as rice, beans, and sardines, which attendees noted provide significant savings for their household budgets. The initiative, held on the grounds of the old railway, aimed to make essential goods more accessible.

Many participants expressed a desire for these types of fairs to become permanent fixtures, particularly to assist elderly individuals and people with disabilities who face challenges traveling long distances. The consensus among attendees was that these events are crucial for accessing basic foods at lower costs, especially when products come directly from producers.

These fairs are seen as a vital measure to help families cope with the increasing cost of living. By connecting consumers directly with producers, the initiative helps alleviate the financial strain caused by rising prices, making essential nutrition more attainable.