The government held a special discussion today (25) to assess the potential impact of the global El Niño phenomenon on the supply and prices of essential food commodities in Sri Lanka and to strengthen preparations to address any disruptions.
The meeting was chaired by Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Wasantha Samarasinghe.
Officials reviewed the stocks of essential food commodities held by importers and examined relevant data from Sri Lanka Customs as part of the assessment.
Importers were also engaged in detailed discussions on ensuring uninterrupted supplies of essential food items, including dhal, potatoes, onions, dried fish and sugar, while maintaining stable market prices.
The discussion also focused on measures to prevent potential shortages and price increases resulting from adverse weather conditions and changes in global supply conditions.
It was agreed that market conditions and weather developments would be continuously monitored, with necessary decisions taken promptly to manage any emerging shortages or price pressures.
The meeting was attended by Ministry Secretary K.A. Vimalenthirarajah, Consumer Affairs Authority Chairman Hemantha Samarakoon, Cooperative Wholesale Establishment Chairman Kosala Wilbawa, Lanka Sathosa Chairman Ravindra Fernando, and other officials.
