Locals have complained about the prices of turmeric powder in Mannar which are being sold in some places for up to 5000 rupees per kilogram due to Sri Lanka’s import ban.
Supermarkets in Mannar have been criticised for hoarding large quantities of turmeric powder that has resulting in prices being raised for local customers. The Sri Lankan government recently imposed an import ban as part of a series of measures related to the coronavirus pandemic which has resulted in prices of products such as turmeric to soar in price.
Many supermarkets are currently selling turmeric at rates of up to 400-500 rupees per 100 grams and 4000-5000 rupees per kilogram. As a result, locals have reported to the local authorities for the necessary actions to be taken to combat the price issue and highlighted that the prices are being increased every day.
Mannar traders are suspected to be sourcing turmeric powder illegally through unauthorised sources from India as a result of the import ban so customers have complained that traders are charging them inflated prices due to the high demand giving them the liberty to increase their prices.
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