• Says existing forex crisis is a temporary situation
• Shop owners should display prices of products clearly in shops

by. Sheain Fernandopulle

While saying that there is a minor shortage in four essential commodities, the Finance Ministry said there is an urgent need of setting up an effective mechanism where imported goods reach  the public in a more transparent manner.
The matter was discussed in the maiden meeting of the committee appointed by the President headed by Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa to ensure that there is no shortage of essential commodities. 

The Ministry said though there is a minor shortage of four essential goods such as milk powder, LP gas, wheat flour and cement at present, sufficient stocks of all other items are in hand.

Moreover, Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa raised the importance of displaying the prices of products clearly in shops as there is a tendency among shop owners to decide the prices as they wish.

He also highlighted that the Consumer Affairs Authority should carry out surveillance and compile reports on essential food items on a daily basis and thereby, the disparity in the distribution of the imported goods could be identified.

Meanwhile, the Finance Minister said the existing forex crisis is a temporary situation.