Food importers say no shortage of essential items

• Importers confident sufficient buffer stocks available 
• India expected to resume big onion exports from 15 March  

By Charumini de Silva

The Essential Food Commodities Association yesterday assured that there were ample stocks and a steady supply of all essential food items, while requesting the general public not to panic unnecessarily.

“There is no shortage in availability of essential food items in Sri Lanka,” a spokesperson from the Essential Food Commodities Association told Daily FT. 

The announcement of two COVID-19 positive cases in Sri Lanka on Wednesday and Thursday resulted in panic buying at supermarkets and other retail outlets, which saw the emptying of shelves, creating a temporary shortage of essential items. 

Information and Mass Media Minister Bandula Gunawardena yesterday paid a visit to the Pettah market to inquire if there was sufficient supply of food items in the marketplace.

“There is no need to fear about any food shortage in the country,” he told reporters.

The association pointed out that India would open up big onion exports on 15 March, which would ensure resumption of supplies to Sri Lanka.

“People need to be more sensible and thoughtful about others given the current situation and not panic. There are ample stocks and steady supply to meet the demand. We will make sure that the supply chains are not disrupted,” he said.

The association also urged the public to be practical about panic buying and stockpiling of perishable items. “Failure to correctly store these products at home can result in massive waste. Thereby, we reiterate there is no food shortage, don’t panic.”