The Joint Trade Union Alliance has raised concerns over alleged profiteering in the importation and sale of Indian rice in Sri Lanka. Ananda Palitha, the convener of the alliance, stated that the government is earning significant commissions through the process, causing a burden on consumers.
Palitha explained that a kilo of Swarna Nadu rice imported from India is unloaded at the Colombo Port at Rs. 110 per kilo, but it is being sold to consumers at an inflated retail price of Rs. 220, effectively doubling the cost. He highlighted that with plans to import 70,000 metric tons, the commission generated from the process amounts to Rs. 7.7 billion.
He criticized the government for failing to provide a reasonable explanation for the steep markup in rice prices. Palitha urged officials to clarify why rice imported at a relatively low cost is being sold at such a high price to consumers.
This issue significantly impacts public affordability and raises ethical concerns about exploiting essential commodities for profit. It also comes at a time when local farmers and mill owners are already struggling in the rice market. The union has called for transparency and accountability, demanding an audit of the import process and price-setting mechanisms. Addressing the issue at a media conference in Colombo, Palitha stressed the importance of immediate corrective measures to prevent unfair pricing practices.
The revelation has added to the growing frustration among the public over increasing living costs and the government’s perceived failure to ensure fair trade practices.
