Sri Lanka’s Food Security Committee has met to address concerns over essential food supplies and price stability in the aftermath of the nationwide disruption caused by Cyclone Ditwah, the government said.
The committee convened at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (10), chaired by Trade and Food Security Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe and Agriculture Minister K. D. Lal Kantha.
Officials discussed the availability of key food items and measures needed to prevent sudden price increases during the post-disaster period.
According to the government, some traders have attempted to artificially raise prices by using the damage to agricultural lands as justification. The committee agreed to take steps to curb such practices and ensure stable market conditions.
As part of the response, the State Trading (General) Corporation and the Cooperative Wholesale Establishment will consider importing potatoes, onions and lentils to ease pressure on domestic supply.
The items will then be distributed to consumers through Lanka Sathosa outlets and cooperative store networks.
The committee also decided to meet weekly to monitor food security and market behaviour as the country continues recovery efforts following the cyclone. (Newswire)