A weekend flea market was launched in Thimphu. It is to provide a unique platform for individuals to showcase and sell a diverse range of products, including secondhand goods. The market was launched during the Druk Tshongrig Gatoen festival which is underway in the capital.
The Druk Tshongrig Gatoen is held annually to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs and showcase local products.
But this year, the festival initiated a new platform for entrepreneurs, the weekend flea market.
The market is located at the startup centre in Changzamtok. The organisers said that the space can be used by people who are looking to sell their products or secondhand items.
Loden Foundation in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment have set up stalls at the market.
Officials said they have yet to decide on the operation of the market.
“When we think of things we can do in Thimphu, there are very limited options. So, we came up with the night market concept. Let’s say a group of people wants to start up a weekend fair to sell secondhand items, it can get quite difficult to organize, like putting up tents. So, with the launch of the flea market, such things become possible,” said Sangay Tshering, President of the Loden Foundation.
“We are partnering with Loden Foundation for this 2023 Druk Tshongrig Gatoen basically to promote entrepreneurial culture, build an entrepreneurial ecosystem, promote the products of young aspiring entrepreneurs and to create awareness about intellectual properties,” said Rigden Wangchuk, Chief Programme Officer of Department of Employment and Entrepreneurship.
Some of the entrepreneurs said that the introduction of the weekend flea market would not only promote local businesses but also address the challenges faced by small enterprises in finding suitable spaces to sell their products.
“Being entrepreneurs, we face the challenge of not having a place to sell our products. So, if we have access to an opportunity like the weekend flea market, that would help us sell our products,” said Jeewan Baral, an entrepreneur.
“As a person living with a disability, some of the major challenges that I am facing right now are the lack of finance, equipment, and finding places to sell my products. And if we are given opportunities and a place to sell our products, then I believe that it will provide more opportunities for us,” said Tandin Dorji, another entrepreneur.
The three-day Druk Tshongrig Gatoen festival will end tomorrow.
