During the discussion, entrepreneurs expressed their concerns about the lack of clear information regarding the timelines and conditions for the move. They pointed out the spread of conflicting rumors among traders, which creates an atmosphere of distrust and uncertainty. People want to know exactly when the relocation will take place, whether the old market will be closed, and under what conditions they will be offered new trading spaces.
One of the sellers noted that there is currently a significant decrease in customer traffic: the number of visitors has decreased, which has reduced sales and income. Meanwhile, traders continue to receive fines despite the absence of an official decision to close the market.
Entrepreneurs emphasized that the responsibility for what is happening is distributed among various government structures, making it difficult to obtain clear answers.
In response to these concerns, Kanybek Tumanbaev stated that the authorities do not intend to close the Osh Bazaar forcibly or suddenly. He noted that the relocation is only possible after the completion of the new market's construction and the establishment of all necessary conditions for trade.
Tumanbaev added that trading at the Osh Bazaar will continue until the new site is ready. A phased and organized relocation is planned, which will not harm businesses or lead to losses. All decisions regarding the relocation will be officially communicated to entrepreneurs.
Responding to complaints about unclear fines, Tumanbaev explained that the market continues to operate officially, and the oversight of compliance with trading rules falls under the jurisdiction of municipal authorities. He also assured that traders' appeals will be considered jointly with the city administration to eliminate any potential pressure on entrepreneurs.
Furthermore, the head of the President's Office emphasized that the Osh Bazaar holds significant social importance, as many families depend on trading as their sole source of income.
According to him, the authorities are interested in ensuring that the relocation process occurs without social conflicts.
Since 2023, the Bishkek authorities have begun informing about plans to relocate the Osh market. The new market is being built in the northern part of the capital, away from the city center. The project includes a large trading complex with covered pavilions, storage facilities, engineering infrastructure, and parking.
At the end of January 2026, it became known that the sale of trading spaces at the new site had begun. However, among entrepreneurs, there are concerns that the old market may close before the new one is completed, and that new trading spaces will be offered on a paid basis.
