The initiative, launched in popular tourist hotspots like Costa Blanca aims to curb the growing problem of illegal street selling.
It could leave them facing fines of up to £170 if caught purchasing goods from unlicensed street vendors.
Increased Police Presence to Enforce Fines
According to the Spanish government and local authorities, undercover police officers will be deployed throughout Costa Blanca during the peak summer holiday season.
These plain-clothed officers will monitor and fine tourists who purchase items from unlicensed vendors, known locally as “manteros” or “top mantas,”.
They typically display their goods on blankets spread out on the streets. The fines can reach up to €200, equivalent to £170.
The Guardia Civil, Spain’s national police force, has already begun rigorous enforcement of these new regulations.
Recently, they confiscated several tonnes of counterfeit products from a warehouse in Alicante, which were intended for illegal street sellers.
The crackdown is part of a broader effort to protect legitimate businesses and maintain order in popular tourist destinations.
Local Government Support for the Crackdown
The mayor of Torrevieja, a bustling city on the Costa Blanca, has publicly called for an increased police presence this summer to ensure the enforcement of these regulations.
Torrevieja, which sees its population swell to around 500,000 during the peak tourist season, is a key focus area for this initiative.
Local authorities are determined to protect both tourists and legitimate businesses from the negative impact of illegal street vending.
The local Association of Traders and Businessmen in Benalmadena, a coastal town on Spain’s Costa del Sol, has also voiced strong support for the crackdown.
They claim that legitimate shop owners are losing between 20 and 30 percent of their profits to these unlicensed sellers.
The association has called for stricter penalties not only for the vendors but also for the tourists who purchase from them, urging the government to take a firmer stance against these illegal activities.
Government Websites and Official Warnings
The Spanish government has issued official warnings on their tourism websites, advising tourists to avoid purchasing goods from street vendors who do not have a valid license.
These warnings emphasize that ignorance of the law will not exempt tourists from fines and encourage visitors to support legitimate businesses instead.
For more information, tourists can visit Spain’s official tourism portal and the Guardia Civil’s website, where details about the new regulations and enforcement strategies are provided.
Protect Yourself and Your Wallet
Tourists are advised to be vigilant and avoid purchasing items from unlicensed street vendors while visiting Spain.
By supporting legitimate businesses, visitors can help maintain the local economy and avoid hefty fines.
This summer, ensure your holiday in Spain is memorable for the right reasons by steering clear of illegal street sales.
Tags: Costa Blanca, Spain,The UK tourists, summer holiday
