Govt. Prepares for El Niño: Focus on Essential Food Supply and Price Stability

The Sri Lankan government convened a special discussion on September 25th to assess the potential impact of the global El Niño phenomenon on the supply and prices of essential food commodities. Chaired by Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development Wasantha Samarasinghe, the meeting reviewed importer stocks and customs data to prepare for potential disruptions. Officials engaged with importers to ensure uninterrupted supply, acknowledging that while direct impact might be minimal, global effects could indirectly affect Sri Lanka's essential imports. Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayathissa also stated the government is implementing a systematic plan to support those who may be affected by El Niño.