Dear Editor,
Subject: Concern over vendor fees for regular Te Tapora Kai Farmers market tenants during Trade Day.
I am writing as a concerned member of our market community regarding the vendor fee charged during the annual Trade Day at the Tapora Kai.
Many of our regular vendors work at the market six days a week, selling weaving, local produce and other Cook Islands–made goods. These are the same people who keep the market alive every day – rain or shine – promoting local products and creating a welcoming space for both locals and visitors. It seems there has been no special consideration for these regular stallholders, who already pay for their market space throughout the year. Some of them also pay VAT on the goods they purchase from suppliers before reselling them at the market. Asking them to pay another $30 just to trade on the same spot during Trade Day feels unfair and discouraging.
The Trade Day is meant to celebrate local business and community spirit, but for our regular market vendors, it has become an extra cost on top of their usual expenses. Instead of being included and recognised for their ongoing contribution, they feel left out of an event that should highlight their hard work.
I kindly ask that BTIB review this policy and consider exempting regular Te Tapora Kai tenants from the Trade Day fee, or find another way to support them. They already promote the market and contribute to the local economy every day of the week.
Meitaki maata for taking the time to listen and for considering the views of those who make the market what it is – a true reflection of our community.
Yours sincerely,
Regular vendor
(Name and address supplied)
Reply
Kia Orana,
We acknowledge the regular vendors to the market and applaud their efforts in using the market during the week days. The Punanga Nui Market (PNM) is a place for all Cook Islanders who wish to sell their produce, products and crafts or to test new products. We all know that the PNM is under the management of the Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC). Many have used this place for their economic advantage in the past and we hope, into the future.
During Trade Days, we have an agreement with CIIC to use the PNM as trading venue, for the reason that some of our vendors are already trading at the market and they are familiar with the place and facilities; our people are also familiar with the Punanga Nui market as the Trade Day venue. It only makes sense to continue holding the Trade Day event there.
With regards to the charge of $30, BTIB interviewed some of the vendors at the market to see if they share the same view as the author of the above letter and have had the following responses:
“Trade Days bring a lot of customers. Sometimes we make more sales during the Trade Days than we do for a whole week at the market.”
“Although we are there throughout the week, the Trade Days brings in more sales for us because there are more people coming to the Trade Days.”
“It’s a one-off event that brings in more sales. Just need more promotion as some people are not aware of the Trade Days until the last minute.”
“Love the Trade Days, not only do I get to showcase my products, I make more sales, and it’s fun with all the entertainment.”
Judging by the vendors response above, the $30 fee is not an issue for them as the return on their investment of an extra $30 during Trade Days is more than what they make, sometimes during a whole week of trading. Trade Days brings more people through the market which increases their sales significantly.
Repeta Puna
Chief Executive Officer
Business Trade and Investment Board
