In response to escalating concerns over rising vegetable and egg prices, Sri Lanka's Minister of Trade, Commerce, and Food Security, Nalin Fernando, has indicated that the government is contemplating the importation of vegetables to curb the surge in prices.
Minister Fernando, addressing the public's anxieties, assured that steps are being taken to address the issue and ensure affordability for consumers. During a media briefing, he revealed that discussions have been held with various government departments, including the Agriculture Ministry, to explore measures to reduce vegetable prices.
Highlighting the potential benefits of importing vegetables, Minister Fernando suggested that the government could make leeks, carrots, and beans available at a price range of Rs. 300 to Rs. 350 per kilo. He further disclosed that the Food Policy Committee, established at his behest, has committed to implementing measures to lower vegetable prices within the next month to one and a half months.
Turning attention to egg prices, Minister Fernando acknowledged an increase of Rs. 8 in the price of imported eggs, attributing the change to adjustments in Value Added Tax (VAT) and associated taxes. Imported eggs, he noted, would now be sold at Rs. 43 at all Sathosa outlets, up from the previous Rs. 35.
The Minister explained that the State Trading Corporation's decision to import eggs from India under new tenders accounted for the added VAT, increased taxes, and higher transportation costs. Initially, the government had monitored local egg production for two weeks, attempting to meet demand. However, after a temporary suspension of egg imports led to market prices surging to between Rs. 52 and Rs. 55 per egg, the State Trading Corporation resumed imports to stabilize prices and ensure availability.
Minister Fernando expressed optimism that if local suppliers could offer eggs at the Rs. 43 price point, it would alleviate the issue of rising egg prices, benefiting consumers nationwide.
