Debate over Dalong Market's character; Mayor Chiang says events drive business

DPP Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang criticized Dalong Market today, stating that while it had unique features before renovation, those traditional characteristics have disappeared. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an responded that Dalong Market certainly has character. Market Administration Office Director Huang Hong-guang previously stated in the city council that the market lacked character, a comment he later retracted. Shen argued that if one truly cared about the market, such a comment would be impossible, pointing to issues like unclear signage and a disconnect between internal and external vendors. Mayor Chiang emphasized that Dalong Market is the first example of a joint development between residential housing and a market, and it features independent dining spaces. Chiang noted that since its opening in 2019, the city has introduced flagship stores, shared kitchens, and events like healthy cooking classes to drive traffic and business. Chiang added that the city is also renovating other markets like Nanmen and Huanan, and will continue to upgrade both software and hardware based on the unique characteristics of each market.