Big onion from China flood Pettah market amidst India’s export ban

• Onion imported from Turkey also available in the market

Text and pic by Pradeep Pathirana 

Amidst India’s ban on onion exports, the Pettah market is now flooded with big onions imported from China for the benefit of consumers during the Avurudu season.  

During a visit to the market area, it was found that onion costs Rs.350 a kilo in the wholesale market. Onion imported from Turkey is also available in the market. 

India, a key exporter of big onion, has imposed a ban on exports in a bid to curb inflation in that country ahead of elections. However, India allowed for the export of red onion and rose onion for the Sri Lankan market. Onion is a key cooking ingredient in the country.