Arab Saleem local market now only caters to the needs of the Syrian displaced and no longer that of the inhabitants

As Safir newspaper published a report about the once popular market in Arab Salim and which was set up by one of the local residents, Hasan Nadar, with a view to provide easy marketing opportunities to the residents as well as a space for consumers to buy goods.  To be noted that popular markets are usually an important outlet for families with limited income as the available goods are of low prices compared to regular markets especially since rent, taxes, and the cost of utilities are either waived or subsidized.
The market started with 40 stalls spread over 3 dunnums but has now shrunk to only 20 stalls after several interruptions, and with a limited choice of goods.  Consumers are now mainly relying on the Monday market in Nabatyeh to buy their products hence decreasing local demand significantly. However, the market remains an important need for Syrian displaced, according to Aamneh Nadar, a member of the women agro-industry cooperative, who exhibits her food products at the market including jams, essences and traditional food, as she lamented the difficult economic situation that prevails in the region.
Source: Al-Safir 27 January 2014