The grand market in the centre of Labe is one of the most important commercial hubs in the Fouta Djallon, drawing traders from across the highlands and from Guinea-Bissau across the border. Stalls are organised by type: fresh produce, butchers, grain merchants, and a section dedicated to the crafts the region is famous for — indigo-dyed cotton cloth, hand-worked leather sandals, wallets, and bags.
The leather goods in particular are worth seeking out. Fouta Djallon craftsmen have a long tradition of working cattle hide into durable everyday objects, and the market prices are considerably lower than you will find anywhere downstream in Conakry. Bargaining is standard for non-food items. The market is busiest in the mornings from around 7am; by mid-afternoon the produce stalls begin to pack up.