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Government Ends Rice Import Permits, Focuses on Supporting Local Farmers

Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce, and Food Security, R.M. Jayawardena, announced that the circular permitting rice imports, which expired on January 10, will not be extended.

Speaking during a visit to the Pannegamuwa Rice Mill in Lunugamvehera on January 11, the Deputy Minister inspected the mill’s operations and discussed potential upgrades, including modernization and improved storage facilities.

Deputy Minister Jayawardena reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the rice shortage by purchasing rice directly from local farmers. This move underscores the government’s focus on supporting domestic agriculture to ensure food security while reducing reliance on imports.