The Small and Medium Scale Rice Mill Owners’ Association says, growing rice shortage in local markets, attributing the scarcity to the rising use of raw rice in beer production. The association says that the increased demand for ‘Nadu’ paddy for brewing has significantly reduced the rice available for consumers, driving up prices.

U.K. Semasinghe, Chairman of the Association, explained that ‘Nadu’ paddy, a key ingredient in beer production, is being diverted from regular rice supply, thus decreasing the availability of ‘Nadu’ rice for household consumption.

Farmers' organizations have echoed these concerns, urging the government to take immediate action to stabilize rice prices and ensure adequate supply, 

Reports from local shopkeepers indicate difficulties in sourcing rice at government-controlled prices, further exacerbating the situation. In response, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake convened a meeting with major rice distributors and agreed to maintain controlled retail prices to ease the strain on consumers.