Introduction to Guadalajara’s Central Market
Guadalajara, Jalisco. The central market of Guadalajara, the second-largest wholesale market in Mexico (after Iztapalapa in Mexico City), is set to be revitalized with the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, making it a must-visit attraction in the city.
UCMA’s Integral Program for Market Enhancement
Moisés Ramos, the president of the Union of Wholesale Market Vendors (UCMA), spoke to El Economista about an all-inclusive program to “spruce up” the market in collaboration with local and state governments.
“We need to spruce up the market; people will be visiting us, and when we travel as tourists, we want to explore markets, their cuisine, colors, and aromas. So, we aim to strengthen the wholesale market by updating its water, sanitation, lighting, and hydraulic cement networks,” Ramos Portillo explained.
Ramos Portillo further mentioned upcoming meetings with the governor and mayor of Guadalajara to ensure the market becomes a mandatory tourist stop during the World Cup, as visitors will seek to experience local gastronomy, vibrant colors, and seasonal produce.
Existing Tourism
Currently, the wholesale market attracts both domestic and international tourists due to its proximity to Expo Guadalajara. During events like conferences and conventions, attendees often visit the market to experience its renowned cuisine.
Moreover, the arrival of transnational companies in Guadalajara has brought new customers to the market, including those seeking specialty ingredients from countries like India.
Market’s Significance
According to Ramos, the market spans 75 hectares and has 1,800 storage units. It’s the second-largest in Mexico, distributing around 60,000 tons of food daily to the entire country and even abroad through some exporters.
The UCMA representatives emphasized their commitment to cleanliness, with street cleaning using hypochlorite and assistance from the Tapatío municipal government. The market also boasts its own C4 video surveillance system for security, working in coordination with Guadalajara’s C5.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of enhancing Guadalajara’s central market? The market is being revitalized to become a major tourist attraction during the FIFA World Cup 2026, showcasing its gastronomy, colors, and produce.
- Who is responsible for the market’s enhancement? The Union of Wholesale Market Vendors (UCMA) is collaborating with local and state governments to implement an integral program.
- What types of tourists does the market currently attract? The market draws both domestic and international tourists, as well as attendees during conferences and conventions.
- What is the market’s significance in Mexico? As the second-largest wholesale market, it distributes approximately 60,000 tons of food daily to the entire country and beyond.
- How does the market ensure cleanliness and security? The market employs street cleaning with hypochlorite, municipal assistance, and a C4 video surveillance system working in coordination with Guadalajara’s C5.
