Güímar Valley Municipalities Diverge on Local Produce Market Modernization Plans
Municipalities in the Güímar Valley are pursuing diverse strategies to modernize local produce markets, ranging from Fasnia's major new construction project to renovation and regulatory updates in neighboring towns.
Modernizing how local produce is sold has become a top priority for municipalities in the Güímar Valley. However, progress on these projects varies significantly from town to town. Developing these markets is essential for promoting local goods, which have held their own designation of origin since the mid-nineties.
Fasnia is leading the way with the largest investment: a 4.27 million euro contract for a new regional market in Los Roques. Funded by the local council, the Island Council (Cabildo), and the Canary Islands Government, the ambitious five-level building will feature forty stalls, parking, a playground, and the Regional Agricultural Extension Office, all conveniently located near the TF-1 highway.
Other towns are taking a different approach. Candelaria is spending 671,425 euros to renovate its existing market on Avenida de la Constitución, focusing on roof repairs and facility upgrades. Meanwhile, Arafo has no plans for a new building and will continue operating in its current locations on Calle Amílcar Conde Belazcoain and Plaza de San Juan Degollado.
Güímar faces the most complex situation. Farmers currently sell their goods from temporary tents in Plaza de San Pedro and El Puertito. The City Council is now looking to rent a permanent space in San Pedro after abandoning a more ambitious project at the former Guaza warehouse. According to local official Raquel Díaz Castro, that plan fell through due to disagreements among the market board members regarding the location.
Beyond construction, local authorities are also updating administrative rules. Güímar plans to revise its 2019 regulations to make it easier for new farmers and artisans to join the market, helping to boost sales of regional staples like black potatoes, wine, honey, and cheese.