The Government of Sri Lanka has issued a Gazette notification to address the looming shortage of Samba and Keeri Samba rice by authorizing the immediate importation of specific substitute varieties.

Under the “Imports and Exports (Control) Regulations No. 03 of 2026,” the Ministry of Finance has relaxed import restrictions to stabilize the local market and ensure food security for consumers.

According to Gazette No. 2482/12, issued by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, importers are now permitted to bring in GR 11 rice.

This includes varieties such as Ponni Samba and Kiri/Paal Ponni rice, which have been officially recognized as suitable substitutes for the popular Samba and Keeri Samba varieties.

To facilitate a rapid supply, the government has exempted these specific rice consignments from the standard Import Control License (ICL) requirements. However, strict timelines have been established: the on-board date indicated on the Bill of Lading must fall between April 2, 2026, and April 30, 2026.

Furthermore, all imported stocks must be cleared through Sri Lanka Customs no later than May 31, 2026.

The regulations also impose a volume cap, restricting each individual importer to a maximum quantity of 1,040 metric tons (MT). This strategic move follows a Cabinet decision reached on March 30, 2026, based on a joint memorandum from the Ministries of Agriculture and Trade.

The Controller General of Imports and Exports is set to issue operational instructions to the Director General of Customs and licensed banks to ensure the smooth implementation of these emergency measures.

Gazette_No_2482-12 (1) by poornima