Haats

Haats are traditional rural markets commonly found in parts of South Asia, particularly in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. The term haat (also haata) comes from the local languages and is used to denote a periodic or weekly market that gathers traders, farmers, artisans, and consumers. Haats are typically held on a fixed day of the week and take place in open or semi-enclosed spaces near villages or along roads, enabling buyers from nearby areas to exchange goods.

Goods typically traded at haats include agricultural produce (grains, vegetables, fruit), dairy and meat products, livestock, fish, handicrafts, clothing, utensils, and household items. Prices are usually determined through negotiation, though some sellers also offer fixed prices. Cash remains predominant, while informal credit arrangements can be common between regular traders and farmers.

Roles and functions: Haats provide a platform for price discovery, market access for smallholders, and a social gathering where people meet information and services. They also supplement larger, more formal markets and can serve as a channel for seasonal produce to reach urban centers. In India, haats operate as periodic markets within or alongside state-regulated Agricultural Marketing Acts, and may be supervised by local committees; some haats operate outside formal regulation and rely on traditional practices.

Modern trends: Some haats have faced competition from organized supermarkets and e-commerce, while others have been incorporated into rural development programs to improve infrastructure, storage, and transport. The concept also exists in border areas and in neighboring countries with similar rural market traditions.