Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Cooperative Development, Wasantha Samarasinghe, stated that price increases during festive seasons are a common occurrence in the market but assured that steps are being taken to address the issue. Speaking during an interview with a newspaper, the Minister highlighted concerns about artificial shortages of goods caused by certain institutions and individuals.
The Minister acknowledged that deliberate efforts by some parties have contributed to disruptions in the supply of goods, creating a strain on the market.
“Various institutions and individuals have intervened to create a shortage of goods in the country. We are working to resolve these issues through discussions and by ensuring a steady supply in the market to prevent inconvenience for the public,” he said.
To mitigate the impact of rising prices, the Minister emphasized the government’s efforts to stabilize the market and control the costs of essential goods.
“We are intervening through government institutions and have taken steps to reduce the prices of essential items by 25% through Sathosa. This is part of a broader effort to manage market prices during the festive season and ensure availability,” he added.
Minister Samarasinghe also reiterated the government’s commitment to preventing future shortages and improving the overall efficiency of the supply chain. He highlighted the importance of addressing these issues to protect consumers from unfair price hikes, particularly during periods of high demand.
The Minister assured the public that measures are being implemented to ensure essential goods remain accessible and affordable, particularly during the festive season, when market fluctuations are most common.
