Wednesday Dec 04, 2024
Wednesday Dec 04, 2024
Wednesday, 4 December 2024 00:50 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Cabinet of Ministers at its meeting on Monday approved the temporary removal of restrictions on rice imports to ensure adequate stocks ahead of the festive season.
The decision, allows rice to be imported without control permits till 20 December.
Speaking at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing yesterday, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa highlighted the urgency of the move, citing a shortage of Nadu rice and other varieties in the market, compounded by recent adverse weather that have damaged paddy cultivation.
“Considering the current shortage and the impact of the flooding, the Cabinet approved removing import restriction on rice temporarily,” he explained.
The move follows last week’s Cabinet decision to import 70,000 tons of rice through State-run agencies - Cooperative Wholesale Establishment (CWE), also known as Sathosa and Sri Lanka State Trading (General) Corporation. “Of this total, 52,000 tons will be imported by the Sathosa and STC, while the remaining 18,000 tons will be opened to private sector importers,” he said.
Unlike in previous instances, Dr. Jayatissa said the Government will closely monitor the import and distribution process to maintain market stability and affordability for consumers. Imported Nadu rice will be sold at a controlled price of Rs. 220 per kilo.
The Cabinet Spokesman said the existing import taxes will remain unchanged to protect local farmers.
Dr. Jayatissa asserted that this is only a short-term solution aimed at addressing immediate shortages. “The Government is already taking steps to strengthen its long-term position by allocating funds and resources to repair and expand State-owned storage facilities, ensuring better preparedness for the upcoming harvest season.
