The Hon. Suranga Rathnayaka

¶ 01 Thank you for the opportunity. On measures that affect farmers under the Special Commodity Levy:

¶ 02 Those who shed crocodile tears for farmers are absent today. The government’s current levy pattern on imported potatoes—Rs. 80 per kg—makes no sense. Domestic production costs are around Rs. 220 per kg, yet production has collapsed from 117,000 MT in 2019 to 17,000 MT now. Pakistani potatoes cost about Rs. 120 per kg in Karachi, but sell for Rs. 1,200 here—there is a massive racket. When Rs. 40 is charged on imports, foreign producers kick back part of it to local importers; thus, the system can neither be controlled nor protect our farmers. Government collects around USD 37 million a year in such levies, but what is spent to develop domestic potato cultivation?

¶ 03 Paddy: harvesting is on, yet Polonnaruwa paddy is bought at Rs. 80 per kg, contrary to earlier loud claims of Rs. 150. Previously, the President raised rice prices by Rs. 10 to benefit big millers—so they can buy luxury cars and jets—yet when prices fall and millers make huge margins, why not reduce rice prices for consumers? Deals with big traders continue while farmers cannot sell their harvest.

¶ 04 Also note: disability and elderly allowances have not been paid for two months. Stop empty talk and deliver relief to the people. Thank you.