Importers of essential food items and key stakeholders in the food distribution network were summoned to the Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development yesterday (23) to discuss measures to ensure an uninterrupted supply amid the prevailing war situation.

The meeting was chaired by Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe, with the participation of Deputy Minister R.M. Jayawardena, Ministry Secretary K.A. Wimalenthirarajah, and several key officials, including representatives from the Consumer Affairs Authority, Cooperative Wholesale Trading Corporation, Lanka Sathosa, State Commercial Miscellaneous Corporation, the Presidential Secretariat Food Security Committee, the Finance Ministry, and Sri Lanka Customs.

During the discussion, the Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong supply and distribution network to prevent shortages of essential food items under current global conditions. He assured that the government is taking steps to stabilize market prices and ease the burden on the public.

To avoid delays caused by fuel quota restrictions, an essential service vehicle registration system has been introduced to ensure uninterrupted transportation of goods. Importers were also urged to maintain a steady supply of essential items to Lanka Sathosa outlets, which are widely relied upon by low-income consumers.

The Minister stated that the proposals discussed would be submitted to the Cabinet for further decisions, while authorities will continue to closely monitor the situation, with another review meeting expected later this week.

Meanwhile, the Consumer Affairs Authority has begun publishing a weekly price range for essential food items, and importers have been advised to keep prices within the announced limits.