Since eight years, the University of the Caribbean in Cancun is hosting the Tianguis del Mayab with the objective to promote the local consumption of organic products that contribute to the economic development of rural communities, the strengthening of regional cultural identity and the promotion of a healthy diet. Among the products found are organic honey, ramón nut/seed (Brosimum alicastrum) products, biodegradable personal hygiene products, melipona honey, canned fruits and jams, vegetables and typical dishes.

To celebrate the 8th Anniversary of the Tianguis, on September 12 and 13, 2018, local producers, the University of the Caribbean and the National Commission of Natural Protected Areas (CONANP) of Mexico, organized a series of conferences and a big sale of products from the Selva Maya region, mainly the Yucatán Peninsula.

Food sovereignty, effects of GMOs and agrochemicals in the mexican agriculture were topics of great interest to the attendants. Producers agreed to share the information with peers in their communities to generate agreements to protect their health and obtain better harvests.

The Sello Colectivo Calakmul Certificate was presented as an option for the certification of sustainable companies under the criteria of Governance, Local Economy and Environmental Stewardship. The organizing committee of the event showed interest in replicating this initiative in the Tianguis, with which it can generate added value to products and enhance the development of local groups and companies.

It is expected that the Tianguis del Mayab will continue growing in order to emerge more responsible consumers and producers who receive benefits and fair compensation for their activities.

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