Gabiley's market is the commercial hub of one of Somaliland's most productive farming regions. The town is known as the breadbasket of the country, and the market reflects that: stalls sell fresh produce that is harder to find in Hargeisa — papaya, watermelon, oranges, various vegetables grown on the farms of the surrounding plateau. Livestock is also traded here, as it is at virtually every market in Somaliland.
The market is most active in the mornings and on the main weekly market day. Even on ordinary days it gives a good picture of the agricultural economy that underpins this part of the country. The town's position on the road to Ethiopia means there is also cross-border trade, and the stalls reflect both Somaliland production and goods coming in from the Ethiopian side at Togwajale.