Around 400 meters away from the old bazaar also known as Pang Jai and in blocks one to three, the new market was more spacious, upgraded with washrooms, ventilation and fire prevention, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department said.

The relocation was part of the government's plan to build public housing, the department said, and eligible hawkers can choose to move to Tung Chau Street and continue their business.

A dragon dance performance and ribbon-cutting were held.

Chairman of Sham Shui Po District Council Chum Tak-shing said the new market offers a more comfortable environment with better facilities. He said the council will discuss ways to attract more customers to the new market.

Only two of the 16 stalls were open and fabrics were seen piled up, as people were given short notice to move, said stall owner Ho Ying-hoi.

Since the new market was located further away, some sellers hoped the government would increase promotional efforts.

The average rent per stall is HK $1,800, but many sellers said they were facing higher rents.

One seller was concerned if the operating hours are - 6am to 8pm - is suitable. "It is too early for people to buy fabric," he said.

"It is spacious and the atmosphere is quite good the pricing is reasonable too," a male customer said.

The new market consists of 53 stalls. Apart from the 16 operating stalls, 12 stall owners will move in May and the rest are open to public auction.