A looming food price shock grips Sri Lanka as global conflict tightens supply chains, raising fears over affordability, imports, and economic stability.
Sri Lanka is bracing for a potential rise in essential food prices as global supply chains face increasing disruption due to the ongoing Middle East crisis. Minister of Trade and Food Security Wasantha Samarasinghe warned that the impact of geopolitical tensions is beginning to ripple into the local market, affecting both availability and cost of key imported goods.
Speaking at a recent media briefing, the Minister highlighted the country’s heavy reliance on imports for staple food items. Nearly 80 percent of potatoes and onions, along with almost 100 percent of lentils, are sourced from overseas. This dependency makes Sri Lanka highly vulnerable to global shipping disruptions, freight cost increases, and rising insurance premiums linked to regional instability.
He noted that delays and complications in shipping routes are already creating upward pressure on prices. However, the government is closely monitoring the situation and has pledged to take strict measures to prevent unjustified price hikes and protect consumers from excessive market manipulation.
