The issuance of the gazette notification banning the retail sale of unpackaged (loose) coconut oil has been delayed after the Cabinet requested further recommendations on the proposed regulations for a second time.
Accordingly, the Cabinet has once again sought reports from the Coconut Development Authority (CDA) and the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) before proceeding with the gazette.
Although the Consumer Affairs Authority had prepared the gazette following a policy decision taken about a year ago, the delay stems from concerns raised by nutritionists and food safety experts.
They have argued that, in the interest of public health and food safety, restrictions should apply not only to coconut oil but to all edible oils sold in loose form.
Despite the delay, Chairman of the Coconut Development Authority Shantha Ranatunga said the required recommendations have now been submitted for a second time and expressed confidence that the gazette notification will be issued soon.
The primary objective of the proposed regulation is to prevent the sale of adulterated coconut oil in the local market.
While the move has been welcomed by sections of the local industry, the All Ceylon Traditional Coconut Oil Producers’ Association has raised concerns over its implementation.
The Association stressed that the regulations should apply equally to both locally produced and imported coconut oil.
It noted that locally produced coconut oil accounts for only about 25 percent of domestic consumption, while the remaining 75 percent consists of imported edible oils marketed as coconut oil.
The Association warned that if imported oils are not subjected to the same packaging requirements, the local coconut oil industry could face a significant competitive disadvantage.
