Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Cooperative Development, Wasantha Samarasinghe, announced that the government has initiated comprehensive measures to provide economic relief to the public. Speaking at a media briefing today, he assured that the government is committed to addressing the financial burdens faced by citizens, especially in light of rising living costs and recent natural disasters.
Samarasinghe highlighted ongoing efforts to lower the prices of essential goods ahead of the upcoming festive season, aiming to ease the strain on households during this period. “We are in discussions to reduce the prices of several essential items, ensuring that families can celebrate the season without added financial stress,” he said.
In addition to these measures, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to assisting those affected by the recent floods, particularly in key agricultural districts. “We are providing necessary support to flood-affected families, ensuring they receive the relief they need to rebuild their lives,” he added.
One of the key promises reiterated by Samarasinghe is the reduction of electricity bills by over 30% within the next three years. He affirmed that this target aligns with the President’s pledge to the nation to lower energy costs. “The government is taking concrete steps to achieve this goal, which will significantly reduce the cost of living for households and businesses alike,” he stated.
This planned reduction is expected to be achieved through a combination of strategies, including increased reliance on renewable energy, modernization of the energy infrastructure, and better management of existing resources.
