Abinader Opens Long-Awaited Market in Las Matas de Farfán

LAS MATAS DE FARFÁN, Dominican Republic – President Luis Abinader, accompanied by First Lady Raquel Arbaje, officially opened a new municipal market in Las Matas de Farfán, San Juan, on Saturday, a project long awaited by the community for five decades. The modern facility aims to transform commercial practices and ensure higher quality products for local families.

Officials emphasized that the market represents more than just a new physical space; it offers enhanced human dignity for merchants and guarantees improved public health standards for consumers.

During the ceremony, First Lady Arbaje highlighted the collaborative effort involved in the market's construction, noting her family's deep connection to Las Matas de Farfán and underscoring the infrastructure's significance to the community.

Ángel de la Cruz, president of the Presidential Commission for Provincial Development, stated that the 23,000-square-meter market, featuring over 66 vendor stalls, was built with "love and dedication." He added that President Abinader's administration has initiated and solidified essential projects nationwide.

Impact on Economy and Public Health

The new municipal market was designed with modern infrastructure standards to enhance both economic activity and public well-being. It includes specialized areas to prevent cross-contamination, with separate sections for meats, vegetables, grains, and other diverse products.

The facility also incorporates advanced hygiene systems to facilitate daily cleaning and proper management of solid waste. Wide aisles, adequate lighting, and efficient drainage systems address previous issues of overcrowding and precarious conditions, ensuring greater safety and comfort for shoppers and vendors alike.

A Vision for Comprehensive Development

The market's inauguration is part of a broader series of development initiatives launched by President Abinader on Saturday. These projects also include the opening of the León Romilio Rodríguez Ventura Educational Center and five new water and sanitation infrastructure works.

Through these investments, the Dominican government is reinforcing its commitment to social well-being across key sectors: education, water health, industry, and commerce. The new market is expected to revitalize the economies of the southern provinces by providing local producers with a dignified point of sale, thereby reducing post-harvest losses and strengthening the regional supply chain.