• Importers demand Rs.350 increase per kilo packet
• Warns of possible shortage if request not granted 

By Kelum Bandara 

Trade Minister Bandula Gunawardana yesterday ruled out the possibility to grant approval for a price hike of imported milk powder because it would add to the burden of people battered by the pandemic.  

Earlier, the leading milk powder importers insisted on a price hike of Rs. 350 for a one kilo packet due to the spike in the world market and the exchange cost due to the depreciation of  the rupee. They also warned of a possible shortage of products in the local market unless a price increase was allowed. 

However, Minister Gunawardana said everyone had to endure difficulties due to the pandemic. 

“People are already burdened. Everyone should make a compromise at this time for the greater good of society,” he said.  

• People are already burdened. Everyone should make a compromise at this time for the greater good of society