Nadu Rice Prices Exceed Control Price in Market

COLOMBO (News 1st); The price of Nadu rice in the market has surpassed the control price, according to the Maradagahamula Rice Producers' Association. 

The association attributes this situation to a shortage of Nadu paddy.

B.K. Ranjith, Chairman of the Maradagahamula Rice Producers' Association, stated that Nadu rice is currently being sold at over Rs. 230 per kilogram in the retail market, despite the maximum retail price being set at Rs. 220.

In light of this situation, News 1st sought clarification from M.M. Naimudeen, Secretary of the Ministry of Trade, regarding the measures being taken concerning Nadu rice.

Naimudeen explained that several departments have been investigating the issue.

Discussions with officials from the Ministry of Agriculture revealed that the Nadu paddy harvests from the previous and current seasons were of excellent quality. 

He suggested that the market might be experiencing an artificial shortage of rice.

Naimudeen further stated that discussions are underway with large-scale rice mill owners to resolve the current situation.

Additionally, he mentioned that steps are being taken to purchase Nadu paddy directly through Sathosa, convert it into rice, and release it to the market.