The Kegalle Magistrate’s Court on Friday (12) imposed fines on two businesses found guilty of selling rice at prices higher than the government’s controlled rates.

A private company operating in Galigamuwa town was fined Rs. 500,000, while a supermarket in Kegalle was ordered to pay Rs. 100,000.

The cases were filed under the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) Act, which regulates the sale of essential goods and empowers authorities to act against violators.

According to officials, the penalties were imposed following inspections that confirmed both businesses had sold rice at inflated prices, contravening regulations aimed at protecting consumers.

The CAA has urged the public to report similar incidents via its 1977 hotline, stressing that continuous market monitoring will be carried out to ensure fair trade practices.