Litro to phase out premium hybrid LPG cylinder

State Minister of Consumer Protection Lasantha Alagiyawanna

State-run Litro Gas Ltd. yesterday announced revised refill prices for its 18-litre premium hybrid cylinder, whilst informing the Consumer Protection Ministry of plans to discontinue the new product in the near future.

Following multiple complaints, the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) observed that the newly introduced 18-litre premium hybrid cylinder had been sold in the market at an exorbitant price compared to the regular 12.5kg domestic LP gas cylinder. It was found that the firm had failed to disclose the weight in kilograms as previously ordered by the Ministry and the CAA.

To manage the situation, two gazette notifications were approved by the Cabinet of Ministers. 

As per the Extraordinary Gazette notification No. 2237/40 on 25 July, the maximum retail price (MRP) of the 18-litre/9.6kg cylinder was revised according to each province, and LPG firms were instructed to display weight in kilograms thus allowing consumers to make an informed choice in the market. Following Laugfs Gas Plc’s announcement on its temporary termination of LPG importation and distribution in the market, Litro Gas had assured that they would refill cylinders of any colour to ensure uninterrupted supply.

Litro Gas yesterday also reaffirmed that it would release 12.5 kg and 18-litre/9.6kg LPG cylinders to the market without scarcity, whilst noting that actions have been taken to deliver gas at the MRP imposed by the CAA.

In a letter addressed to the Consumer Protection State Minister Lasantha Alagiyawanna, the Litro Gas Chairman has confirmed that the firm has already informed its dealers to abide by the MRP.

Consumers are requested to call CAA via 1977 if they are unable to purchase gas at MRP, or if the weight is not displayed in kilograms.