MRP on rice; Govt. to reconsider it only after imports

• 90,000 tonnes of rice to be imported by January 10

By Huzefa Aliasger

The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) will decide whether to do away with the maximum retail price of rice or not, only after price stabilisation in accordance with imports, an official said.

CAA Hemantha Samarakoon told Daily Mirror that 90,000 tonnes of rice including white and Nadu varieties had been allocated to be imported until January 10.

Upon asking whether the maximum retail price will drop after the import of rice the chairman said that no discussions have been made yet, as after assessing the situation a decision will be taken.

“After the completion of imports, the shortage should be minimised, further imports should not be required”, he said.

The chairman also mentioned that raids will continue and fines will be imposed on vendors who sell rice above the maximum retail price.

The maximum retail price for white rice per kilogram is Rs. 215 (wholesale) and Rs. 230 (retail), and Nadu rice is Rs. 225 (wholesale) and Rs. 230 (retail).