Turmeric importers seek help to clear 1 m kilos stuck in port

Tuesday, 1 September 2020 00:40 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

A group of turmeric importers has written to the President and Prime Minister requesting them to facilitate the release of nearly 1 million kg lying in the Colombo Port.

The importers point out that in the last six months, the Government has allowed only 19 containers (342 MT) to be cleared and as this is far less than the demand for turmeric in the local market, this has led to a severe shortage of the spice. The shortage, they say, is also encouraging a black market for turmeric with unscrupulous persons selling a kilogram for around Rs. 4,500 while the market price is around Rs. 750. The importers say if the consignment in the Port is released, turmeric can be sold at the Government marked price and this will help consumers.

They also promise to pay the necessary demurrage costs and assist local turmeric farmers in the future. A copy of the letter was released to the media.