East Java Had the Most Traditional Markets in 2020

East Java had the highest number of traditional markets in 2020. According to the 2020 Directory of Markets and Trading Centers report, the number of traditional markets in this easternmost province of Java reached 2,359 units. These markets are spread across 2,019 villages/sub-districts in 643 sub-districts and 38 regencies/cities.

Central Java is next with 1,977 traditional markets. These are spread across 1,769 villages/sub-districts located in 562 sub-districts and 35 regencies/cities.

Following these, North Sumatra has 858 traditional markets. They are distributed across 775 villages/sub-districts in 371 sub-districts and 31 regencies/cities.

A market is an economic institution where buyers and sellers meet, directly or indirectly, to conduct trade transactions. Traditional markets are planned, built, and managed by the central government, regional governments, private sector, or other institutions.

Within traditional markets, there are stalls, kiosks, shops, or tents owned or managed by small and medium-sized traders, community-based initiatives, cooperatives, and others. The buying and selling of goods with consumers is conducted through bargaining.