Working customers in Suva will soon have the chance to do their market shopping after working hours.

Thanks to the Suva City Council (SCC), the Suva Market opening hours has been revised, effective from tomorrow, December 11, 2019. The revised hours shall be: Monday to Thursday- 7am to 7pm; Friday and Saturday- 6am to 8pm.

As the country enters the festive season, the council will work with the Suva Retailers Association and the Fiji Police Force to ensure the safety of Fijians.

Council chairman Isikeli Tikoduadua said the revised hours would allow market vendors more hours to promote and sell their produce.

“We expect that the revised hours shall have a multiplier effect on the Suva economy,” he said.

As the Christmas week closes in, Mr Tikoduadua said Suva, and in many other towns and cities, would be buzzing with many activities.

“Retailers are more than welcome to open shops on flexible hours including late night, thus they are encouraged to light up and decorate their respective shops,” he said.

Mr Tikoduadua also confirmed that Police would ensure public safety with a greater presence of officers on foot patrol.

“More CCTV cameras have been placed and all CCTV cameras in public areas shall be connected to the Totogo Police Station,” he said.

“The council is also taking every step to remove all illegal markets established on roadsides. An alternative spot is being offered to people trading from these areas.”

He is encouraging people to visit Suva during the Christmas week and take advantage of the grand sales organised by the retailers.

“Individual retailers will be announcing opening hours this Christmas season and the council fully supports the late extended shopping hours,” he said.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

Feedback: shreeya.verma@fijisun.com.fj