February 19, Colombo (LNW): Trade and Food Security Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe informed Parliament that two retail units at the Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre have been unlawfully sold by traders who were merely tenants of the premises.
Responding to a question raised in the House by MP Chamara Sampath Dassanayake, the Minister clarified that the economic centre remains government property and that any transfer or sale of shop space by lessees is strictly prohibited under existing regulations.
He stressed that traders are granted occupancy rights, not ownership, and therefore have no legal authority to dispose of the premises.
The Minister indicated that inquiries are under way to determine the circumstances surrounding the reported transactions and to identify those responsible. He added that appropriate legal action would be pursued if violations are confirmed, underscoring the government’s intention to safeguard public assets.
During the exchange, Samarasinghe also defended the recent establishment of National Agribusiness Services Ltd, a state-backed entity created to improve the management and operational efficiency of economic centres across the country. He maintained that the move aims at streamlining wholesale trade, strengthening food distribution networks and ensuring fair pricing mechanisms for both farmers and consumers.
However, MP Dassanayake voiced concern that the formation of the new company could trigger resistance among traders, including some from the Minister’s own home district. He cautioned that dissatisfaction within trading communities might lead to political and economic repercussions if their grievances are not addressed.