The price of big onions has reached unprecedented levels, causing widespread concern among consumers and traders alike. Reports indicate that the wholesale price of a kilogram of locally grown onions has increased to 400 rupees, while the price for imported onions has climbed to 370 rupees per kilogram. This sharp rise in prices is being attributed to restrictions on the import of big onions from several key supplier countries, which has disrupted the supply chain and reduced availability in the market.
The Dambulla Economic Center Trade Association has noted that these import limitations have significantly strained the onion supply, creating a shortage that is directly impacting wholesale and retail prices. Traders warn that, as a result of these constraints, the retail price of a kilogram of big onions is expected to soar to between 500 and 600 rupees in the coming days. This dramatic increase poses a serious challenge for households, as onions are a fundamental ingredient in everyday cooking for many families. The burden is particularly heavy for low-income households, where rising food prices further strain already tight budgets.
Market analysts suggest that the situation is exacerbated by a combination of factors, including insufficient domestic onion production to meet demand and a heavy reliance on imports to bridge the gap. Economic pressures such as inflation, currency fluctuations, and increased transport costs may also be contributing to the surge in prices. Meanwhile, the catering and restaurant industries are also feeling the impact, as higher onion prices drive up the costs of preparing meals, which may in turn lead to increased food prices for consumers dining out or purchasing prepared meals.
The current crisis highlights the vulnerability of the food supply chain to disruptions and the importance of balancing domestic agricultural production with strategic import policies. Stakeholders are urging the government to take immediate steps to address the situation by exploring options such as temporary easing of import restrictions, negotiating with onion-exporting countries, or implementing support measures for local farmers to boost production. Until effective measures are implemented, the soaring price of big onions is expected to remain a significant challenge for both consumers and traders.
