Authorities Warn Traders Against Hoarding as Fuel Supply Secured for Essential Food Transport

Steps have been taken to implement a programme to ensure the uninterrupted supply of fuel for vehicles involved in the distribution of essential food items, authorities have announced.

Chairman of the Consumer Affairs Authority, Hemantha Samarakoon, said discussions have been held with officials from transport service associations and the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation regarding the continuous provision of fuel for essential food distribution vehicles.

He stated that measures are being put in place to ensure the distribution of essential goods without shortages during the upcoming festive season.

According to the Consumer Affairs Authority, a large portion of the food items required by Sri Lanka are imported from India and Pakistan.

The Authority assured that there are no issues expected with regard to the importation of these food items.

The public has also been urged not to hoard food items due to unfounded fears of shortages. Samarakoon warned that strict legal action will be taken against traders who engage in stockpiling essential goods with the intention of creating artificial shortages.

The Chairman further emphasised that all necessary steps are currently being taken to ensure the continuous and sufficient supply of essential food items during the festive season, without disruption.

The measures are aimed at maintaining market stability, preventing shortages, and ensuring that consumers have uninterrupted access to essential food supplies amid prevailing challenges.

Source: News First