Small Businesses Complain About Illegal Vending Activity

On a typical day, those walking through Chinatown will encounter sidewalk vendors selling clothing accessories, vegetables, seafood, and other goods. These goods are often identical to those in the businesses they operate alongside, and priced very competitively, drawing crowds.

PCDC has received complaints from small businesses about these illegal vendors. The primary concern is that street vendors can out-compete small businesses because they do not pay rent. Small businesses in Chinatown are essential cultural resources to the community, and already face the threat of encroaching chain stores and rising rents. In order to maintain Chinatown as an authentic place of opportunity for Chinese immigrants, a conversation to protect our small businesses.