The Hon. Ravi Karunanayake

¶ 01 Given the recent statement on 21 March, 2025 by the Hon. Minister of Trade regarding the possible importation of rice due to anticipated shortages and in light of concerns raised by paddy growers about an impending shortfall, kindly respond to the following Question to ensure transparency and proactive action on this critical issue:

¶ 02 1. Could the Minister provide the total production figures for the Maha paddy crop as at 1 April, 2025, including regional yield variations and any significant trends? 2. What is the total volume of rice imported into Sri Lanka as at 1 April, 2025 and the total cost for importing rice? Has the entirety of the imported rice stock been sold or allocated for distribution? If not, how much remains in storage and where is it currently held? What is the carrying cost of this rice on a per kg basis? 3. What is the current average per capita rice consumption in Sri Lanka and how does it compare to both the previous year and the five-year average? 4. Based on available stocks and consumption trends, does the Ministry project any rice shortages in the near future? If so, what is the timeline for such shortages? 5. Are the big rice mill operators still creating a price distortion, artificial shortage and manipulating the market? If so, name them. What criteria does the Government use to assess whether additional rice imports are necessary to address potential shortages? 6. The President and Government mentioned that there will not be any more imports of rice after 31.01.2025. If further rice imports are planned, what safeguards will be implemented to protect the income and livelihoods of local paddy farmers, particularly regarding farm gate prices and market competition? 7. How is the Ministry planning to manage future fluctuations in domestic rice production and consumption to ensure long-term food security, while prioritizing the sustainability of local agriculture? What is the minimum price paid for paddy as at to-date and what is the maximum selling price for rice in the market as at to-date?

¶ 03 Sittings of the Parliament