If you think you’ve seen big markets in Mexico City, the Central de Abasto (CEDA) will redefine your understanding of scale. As one of the largest wholesale markets in the world, this massive complex covers 327 hectares and handles a staggering 30,000 tons of food daily, making it the primary source of produce and food supplies for Mexico City’s 22 million residents.

Unlike the city’s retail markets, Central de Abasto functions as a wholesale distribution center where restaurants, smaller markets, and food businesses source their supplies. For expats living in Mexico City, particularly those in the food industry or running businesses, understanding CEDA is crucial – it’s quite literally the belly of the city.

Located in the Iztapalapa district, CEDA operates almost like a small city. Its massive corridors are organized by product type, with different sections dedicated to fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and dry goods. The scale is hard to comprehend: imagine aisles wide enough for trucks to pass through, lined with warehouses full of produce stacked to the ceiling.

While CEDA isn’t typically a destination for individual shoppers, it’s worth understanding its role in Mexico City’s food ecosystem. The prices here set the benchmark for what you’ll pay in smaller markets across the city. When you hear locals discussing food prices, they’re often referencing CEDA’s wholesale rates as the baseline.

For those who do venture to visit, here are some essential things to know:

The market operates 24/7, but the prime time for activity is between 2 AM and 10 AM when most of the buying and selling occurs. This is when you’ll see the true scale of Mexico City’s food distribution system in action.

Security is tight, and visitors should always have a clear purpose for being there. This isn’t a tourist destination – it’s a serious business hub where millions of dollars in transactions occur daily.

Navigation can be challenging even for locals. The complex is divided into multiple sections and subsections, each with its own specialization. First-time visitors should consider going with someone familiar with the market’s layout.

For expats working in Mexico’s food industry, CEDA offers unparalleled opportunities. Whether you’re running a restaurant, catering business, or food production company, establishing relationships with vendors here can give you access to the best products at the best prices.

The market also plays a crucial role during holidays and festivals. During times like Day of the Dead or Christmas, CEDA’s activity levels spike as it supplies the ingredients for traditional seasonal dishes across the city. Understanding these cycles can help expat business owners better predict and prepare for seasonal demands.

While not everyone needs to visit CEDA personally, understanding its role helps explain much about Mexico City’s food culture. The freshness of produce in local markets, the reasonable prices of street food, and the city’s vibrant restaurant scene – all of these connect back to the efficient distribution system centered at CEDA.

For those who do need to source wholesale quantities, here’s some practical advice:

Arrive early (pre-dawn) for the best selection and prices. Many transactions are completed before sunrise.

Bring cash, though many larger vendors now accept cards. Always confirm payment methods in advance.

Invest time in building relationships with vendors. Like much of Mexican business culture, personal connections matter here.

Transportation is crucial – either arrange for delivery or bring appropriate vehicles for hauling your purchases.

Central de Abasto represents Mexico City’s remarkable ability to feed millions of people daily. For expats, particularly those in food-related businesses, understanding CEDA’s role is key to understanding how the city functions. While it may not be part of your daily shopping routine, this massive market complex is an essential part of life in North America’s largest city.

Remember, CEDA is primarily a wholesale market, not a tourist destination. If you need to visit, go with a clear purpose and preferably with someone who knows the system. The reward is access to the freshest products at the best prices, direct from the source that supplies much of Mexico City’s famous food scene.

Whether you’re planning to start a business or simply want to understand how Mexico City’s food system works, CEDA offers insights into the complex infrastructure that keeps this megalopolis fed. It’s a testament to the scale, efficiency, and importance of Mexico’s food distribution networks – and an essential piece of knowledge for any expat making this vibrant city their home.