Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Wasantha Samarasinghe said measures are being taken to ensure the uninterrupted availability of essential goods to the public during the upcoming festive season.
The Minister said necessary steps had already been implemented to prevent shortages of essential commodities across the country.
He noted that prices of bread and other bakery products, milk powder and certain imported goods had increased. However, he said the Government was actively intervening in the market by purchasing produce from farmers and releasing it to maintain market stability.
Samarasinghe said the Food Security Committee had convened in Parliament to develop a programme through Lanka Sathosa and other market outlets nationwide, ensuring that consumers could obtain essential items without shortages.
He further explained that imported goods had experienced price increases due to various international factors, including restrictions imposed by certain countries on imports and exports, which also affect Sri Lanka.
The Minister said discussions were underway with institutions such as Lanka Salu Sala, Lanka Sathosa, cooperative societies, the Pettah Importers’ Association and manufacturers to ensure the continued availability of goods during the festive season.
While acknowledging that some price fluctuations could occur due to global developments, Samarasinghe assured that the Government was engaging with importers and manufacturers to stabilise the market and minimise the burden on consumers.
