Sajith Premadasa criticizes Sri Lankan rice imports amid domestic surplus

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has criticized the Sri Lankan government for importing rice despite a reported domestic production surplus. Premadasa noted that while the annual rice requirement is approximately 2.5 million metric tons, domestic production reaches about 3.2 million metric tons. Despite this surplus, the government has imported roughly 382,000 metric tons of rice.

The Opposition Leader argued that these imports undermine local farmers who are already struggling with depressed paddy prices. He highlighted a discrepancy in the guaranteed price for paddy, stating that while the cost of production is approximately Rs. 137 per kilogram, the current guaranteed price remains at Rs. 120, leaving farmers with a shortfall of Rs. 17 per kilogram.

Premadasa further criticized the government for failing to implement legislation for a guaranteed price of Rs. 150 per kilogram, a promise made during their time in opposition. He also noted that despite an allocation of Rs. 7,500 million intended to support small- and medium-scale rice millers, many farmers continue to face significant difficulties in selling their harvests.