The price of rice has increased following the government’s recent announcement of certified paddy prices, as the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) calculates the wholesale price of rice at 2.1 times the cost of a kilo of paddy, according to Trade Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe.
Speaking during a discussion on Rupavahini, the minister explained that this pricing formula has directly impacted the cost of rice. With Nadu paddy being purchased at Rs. 120 per kilo, the corresponding price of Nadu rice has risen to Rs. 252 per kilo. Similarly, the purchase price of Samba paddy at Rs. 125 per kilo has resulted in Samba rice being sold at Rs. 262 per kilo, while Keeri Samba paddy priced at Rs. 132 per kilo has led to Keeri Samba rice reaching Rs. 277 per kilo.
The increase in rice prices has raised concerns among consumers, who are already struggling with the rising cost of essential goods. The government is expected to assess the situation and consider measures to address the impact of these price changes on the public.
