In a bid to stabilize prices and address shortages, the Sri Lankan Cabinet has approved the import of key food items including maize, eggs, and rice. This move aims to alleviate pressure on consumers facing rising living costs.

Fueling Poultry Production:

To ensure sufficient poultry feed and prevent disruptions in egg production, the government has sanctioned the import of 15,000 metric tons of maize through the State Trading Corporation. This directly addresses concerns raised by the poultry industry regarding feed shortages.

Boosting Rice Availability and Competition:

Recognizing the popularity of the locally-grown “Keeri Samba” rice variety, the Cabinet has approved the import of 50,000 metric tons of GR11 rice, a similar high-quality grain. Notably, this import will be handled by the private sector, aiming to introduce competition and potentially stabilize rice prices.

Egg Prices Get a Crack at Stability:

Following recommendations from the Department of Animal Production and Health, the government has greenlit the import of eggs from designated Indian farms. This aims to address the recent egg price hikes and ensure consistent supply in the local market.

State Takes the Lead on Eggs:

The Sri Lanka State Trading (General) Corporation has already stepped in by importing 155 million eggs, with plans to procure another 18 million before the end of 2023. This proactive approach demonstrates the government’s commitment to tackling the egg price issue head-on.

Overall, the Cabinet’s food import approvals signal a multi-pronged strategy to address various food-related challenges faced by Sri Lanka. While the long-term effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen, they offer immediate relief to consumers and businesses struggling with price hikes and shortages.