The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has launched islandwide raids against the sale of wheat flour at increased prices following an unauthorized Rs. 13 price hike, CAA Chairman Hemantha Samarakoon said.
He said the authority would take the necessary legal action against traders selling wheat flour at higher prices.
Speaking at a media briefing held today (21), Samarakoon said the CAA had learnt of the price increase through media reports, without receiving prior notification from the relevant companies.
He said the authority had immediately contacted wheat flour manufacturers by email, requesting information on the reasons for the price increase and the amount by which prices had been raised.
The CAA chairman further explained that wheat flour is classified as a specified commodity under the relevant legislation. Accordingly, any revision of its price must be preceded by notification to the authority and discussions to reach an agreement.
He noted that no such discussions had taken place and the authority had not been informed of the price increase.
Samarakoon said the CAA would consider the responses received from the manufacturers and take the necessary legal action against those found selling wheat flour at increased prices.
