The Costambar Beach Vendors and Service Providers Association was founded in 1991, and was incorporated as a non-profit association in 2013.   It is one of many such associations organized throughout the country.

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The Association is the formal group principally responsible for maintenance of the beach areas that its members service.  They offer services and crafts that enhance the visitor experience; and enforce rules among their members to avoid tourist complaints, and to ensure that their members maintain good service standards.

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By organizing, the vendors improve their economic stability through access to lower-cost supplies.  The associations often function as local NGOs - advocating development projects, mediating communal resources, while working as stewards of a clean, tourist-friendly beach environment.

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The Vendors Association liaises regularly with the Ministry of Tourism (MITUR) and with the federal tourist police (Politur) to improve and maintain the quality of the beach experience for all visitors and residents of Costambar.  They are often able to bring local issues to the attention of the federal authorities.