During the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Cost-of-Living, the Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa today (24th September) ordered the Controller General of Imports and Exports and the Director General of Sri Lanka Customs to immediately release essential food items blocked due to various reasons at the port.
Speaking at the event, Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa requested Trade Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardane to expedite the distribution of the essential food items to the people through the Co-operative Wholesale Establishment [CWE] and essential food importers.
It was also emphasized that the officials from the Ministry of Trade and Agriculture should be responsible for releasing essential food items including rice to the market without any shortage. At the request of the Minister of Trade Bandula Gunawardane, the Prime Minister expedited the investigation into the allegations made in the resignation of the former Executive Director of the Consumer Affairs Authority.
The request made by State Minister of Livestock, Farm Promotion and Dairy and Egg Related Industries Hon. D.B. Herath for further procurement of animal feed including maize from foreign markets was also approved.