Salt shortage sparks price surge amid import delays

Wednesday, 14 May 2025 01:04 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Salt Producers’ Association yesterday warned that a delay in the arrival of imported stocks has led to a shortage in the market, triggering a sharp increase in retail prices and mounting consumer frustration. “Although the Government has approved the importation of 30 tons of salt, the shipment has not yet arrived as scheduled. This delay has caused a temporary shortage, but we expect the issue to be resolved within this week,” Association’s Chairman Ganaka Amarasinghe said.

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, the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) official confirmed that multiple complaints have been received regarding inflated salt prices.

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