Miches.- The Miches Artisans Association (ARTEMI) has called on authorities to prevent unauthorized vendors from outside the municipality from occupying public beach areas, arguing that the practice threatens order and the integrity of the emerging tourism destination.

During a press conference, the association said the individuals seeking to sell goods on Miches beaches are street vendors from neighboring La Altagracia province, not members of the municipality’s organized artisan community.

ARTEMI said its members work in coordination with local hotels, selling handcrafted products in designated areas while helping preserve order on beaches such as Playa Esmeralda. The group warned that allowing unregulated vendors to operate in public spaces could harm the visitor experience, public safety, and the destination’s reputation.

The association also emphasized that local artisans and entrepreneurs have spent years preparing to benefit from Miches’ tourism growth through training, organization, and legitimate business opportunities.

Backed by ProMiches, ARTEMI urged municipal, provincial, and tourism authorities to continue enforcing regulations, protect public spaces, and ensure that the economic benefits of the area’s tourism development primarily reach local residents.