MONLAR Calls for Holistic Approach to Solving Chronic fluctuation of Rice Prices

The government needs to develop a comprehensive, long-term strategy to address the persistent fluctuations in rice prices, according to Chintaka Rajapakse, Moderator of the Movement for Land and Agricultural Reform (MONLAR). His comments come amid ongoing concerns about the effectiveness of current price control measures.

“Historical evidence shows that simply implementing paddy price controls fails to stabilize rice prices in the market,” Rajapakse explained. He noted that while farmers are currently receiving above-government-controlled prices due to paddy scarcity, particularly in areas where harvesting hasn’t begun, the critical issue of final rice prices remains unaddressed.

Rajapakse criticized the government’s traditional approach of importing rice as a quick fix for high prices. He described a common pattern where large-scale mill owners typically release their reserves when imports arrive, temporarily reducing market prices. “Currently, consumers are relying on imported rice, which has led to some price reduction. However, this is not a sustainable solution,” he emphasized.

The MONLAR moderator stressed the need for a more holistic approach to address the underlying issues in Sri Lanka’s rice market. The current situation highlights the disconnect between paddy procurement prices and retail rice prices, suggesting that price controls alone are insufficient to protect both farmers’ interests and consumer affordability.

The comments reflect growing concerns about the sustainability of Sri Lanka’s rice market management and the need for more effective policy interventions beyond temporary price controls and import-dependent solutions.