Lisbon Slashes Market and Fair Fees by 30% - What It Means for Local Vendors!

Major Fee Reduction for Lisbon Markets and Fairs

The Lisbon Municipal Assembly has unanimously approved a 30% reduction in the occupancy fees for local markets and fairs managed by the municipality for this year, leading to an estimated financial impact of approximately €490,629. This decision aligns with a proposal initially brought forward by PCP councilors in November 2024, who originally sought a 50% fee reduction.

Details of the Fee Reduction

The 30% fee cut will affect various markets and fairs, including:

• Galinheiras
• Ladra (excluding the sale of used goods)
• Relógio (both permanent and occasional spots)

However, this reduction does not apply to spaces occupied by concessionaires. The Department of Economy and Innovation, led by Diogo Moura from CDS-PP, is tasked with evaluating the impact of this reduction in collaboration with local parish councils managing these markets.

Future Plans and Adjustments

Following this evaluation, the department will present a proposal within 90 days to adjust the fees further based on the specific realities of each market. The document states that fees may be adjusted to better reflect the type of business and create favorable conditions for vendors, helping them achieve a more significant return amidst changing consumption patterns in Lisbon.

In addition, the Assembly also approved a 50% reduction in occupancy fees for merchants at the Alvalade Norte Market from January to September due to construction constraints from a new parking facility. The total estimated impact of this measure is around €103,374.79.

Supporting Local Businesses

To mitigate the expected economic challenges, the municipality and the Alvalade Parish Council agreed to share the burden of the fee reduction, with the municipality covering 60% of the reduction costs.

Acknowledgments

In the same assembly session, the deputies also unanimously expressed condolences for the passing of several notable figures, including former minister Miguel Macedo and journalist José António Saraiva.

This comprehensive approach highlights Lisbon's commitment to supporting local businesses during challenging times while fostering a vibrant market environment.