Mallorca markets warn tourism must not push locals out

Mallorca’s markets face a tourism test: more than 180 representatives from across Spain meet in Palma, Mallorca, on Sunday 25 October to discuss how to attract visitors without losing regular shoppers. The national gathering takes place in the Balearic Islands for the first time, with talks at the Teatre Municipal Xesc Forteza. The Balearic Federation of Permanent Markets says the programme also covers the next generation of traders, healthy food and new technology.

Visitors welcome, regular shoppers needed

Asier Beato Iglesias, president of the Spanish Confederation of Traditional Food Markets (Metrae), welcomes tourism but warns that markets must not become attractions that push out the communities that sustain them. He says modernisation must focus on shoppers and local trade, not just technology.

Aina Moyà, president of the Balearic federation, says traders and public bodies need to work together to secure the markets’ future. She points to their cooperation on Mallorca as a model for other places.

Market visits on Monday

On Monday, delegates will visit the Santa Catalina and Pere Garau markets in Palma. The closing event begins at 11.30 am in Palma City Hall, where the Metrae 2026 awards will recognise work to boost market trade, sustainability and awareness of traditional food markets.

Topics: Tourism · Economy · Palma

Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com