Cabinet Spokesman Nalinda Jayatissa announced that the government will establish a guaranteed price for paddy purchases once market prices begin to decline.
Speaking at today’s Cabinet press briefing, Jayatissa highlighted that farmers currently benefit more by selling paddy to private buyers rather than to the government.
“The current market situation favours farmers selling their paddy to private buyers who process it into rice and release it to the market,” he stated.
Jayatissa explained that the government’s role in the paddy market is to ensure stability through stock management. He noted, “We are intervening by repairing paddy warehouses and allocating funds for purchases, but the government alone cannot handle the paddy market. Small and medium-scale entrepreneurs play a significant role in this sector.”
The Minister emphasised the government’s aim to maintain a balance that benefits both farmers and consumers without compromising price stability. “There is no intention to remove the rice price control, and a minimum guaranteed price for paddy will be introduced accordingly,” he said.
He reassured farmers and consumers that guaranteed prices would be announced promptly if market prices fall, ensuring fair practices and stability in the paddy market.
