Cabinet approves temporary relaxation of salt import restrictions amidst market shortage

Friday, 16 May 2025 05:02 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Cabinet of Ministers yesterday approved temporary relaxation on salt imports, allowing both iodised and non-iodised salt to be imported till 10 June, in response to a sharp rise in retail prices and mounting consumer complaints over shortages.

According to a statement issued by the Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Ministry, the decision was taken at the Cabinet meeting held yesterday.

The intervention came in the wake of warnings from the Salt Producers’ Association, which earlier this week raised concerns over delays in the arrival of imported salt stocks.

Traders and consumers across various regions have reported a steep surge in salt prices. “A packet of crystal salt is being sold at around Rs. 400-500 per kilo. This is nearly double the usual market price,” they claimed.

Some of the consumers charged that after visiting multiple shops and supermarkets, they couldn’t find salt even at a higher price to purchase—expressing their widespread discontent.

Responding to growing concerns, a Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) official confirmed that multiple complaints have been received regarding inflated salt prices.

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