The Sri Lankan government has announced plans to import up to 70,000 metric tons (MT) of rice monthly to combat a severe shortage despite prior reports of surplus production
Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe revealed that the imported rice is expected to arrive by December 15. It will be distributed through state entities Sathosa and the State Trading Corporation (STC) at a price of Rs. 220 per kilogram.
Despite an annual paddy production of 4.8 million MT, the country faces persistent rice shortages. Of the total, 3.1 million MT is Nadu paddy, producing around 2.1 million MT of rice. Sri Lanka’s monthly rice consumption averages 140,000 MT, leaving a theoretical surplus of 40,000 MT per month.
However, this surplus does not translate into market stability. According to Samarasinghe, mismanagement and inefficiencies have caused farmers to struggle to sell their paddy, while consumers face inflated prices and inconsistent availability. Some of the surplus is diverted for industrial uses, such as arrack and beer production, but a significant portion remains unaccounted for in local markets.
During their campaign, the NPP pledged that under their administration, rice imports would not be required. However, faced with a severe shortage, they have been compelled to resort to imports. The focus now shifts to how they will manage paddy procurement when they assume full control of the cycle with the Maha harvest next January, as they work to uphold their commitment.
