Steps have been taken to manufacture surgical masks, which have been in high demand due to the COVID-19 epidemic, within the country.
The import of surgical masks has also been halted accordingly.
This was revealed at a meeting held at the Health Ministry chaired by State Minister of Pharmaceutical Production, Supply, and Regulation Prof. Channa Jayasumana. The meeting was held with the participation of face mask producers and importers.
Nearly 1.5 million surgical masks are in daily use within the country. And these masks are currently being imported from several countries including China.
Reportedly, measures will be taken within the upcoming weeks to manufacture KN95-type masks as well.
At the meeting, it came to an agreement to sell surgical masks at a maximum retail price of Rs 15 and KN95 masks at a maximum retail price of Rs 100.
The State Minister further issued directions for constant monitoring to ensure sale of face masks at the control price and their quality.
