Sri Lanka Considers Salt Imports Amid Production Challenges

 

The Ministry of Trade, Commerce, and Food Security, led by Minister Vasantha Samarasinghe, has announced that private companies have requested government approval to import salt. This move is being considered to address challenges currently impacting local salt production.

Sri Lanka, with its abundant sunlight and extensive coastline, has a natural advantage in salt production. However, adverse weather conditions have significantly affected production levels. R.M. Gunaratne, General Manager of Lanka Salt Limited, stated that the nation currently holds a reserve of 12 metric tons of salt, enough to meet domestic requirements for approximately two months. Concerns about potential shortages have arisen due to recent production shortfalls linked to unfavorable weather.

In response, the Ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of Industries to determine the feasibility of importing salt. The expected continuation of rainy weather further underscores the importance of contingency planning to maintain supply stability.

Meanwhile, concerns over market manipulation have surfaced. Reports suggest that some stakeholders have artificially inflated salt prices by fostering a perception of scarcity. Minister Samarasinghe has condemned these unethical practices, emphasizing the need for regulatory measures to safeguard consumers from unnecessary price hikes.

Although Sri Lanka has sufficient salt reserves to meet current demand, the government is exploring precautionary measures, including imports, to mitigate potential risks. These efforts aim to stabilize the market, protect consumers, and ensure an uninterrupted salt supply for domestic consumption.