April 05, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan authorities have unveiled a plan to distribute fertiliser under a controlled quota system, aiming to ensure affordability and prevent price manipulation as the cultivation season approaches.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture Namal Karunaratne stated that the measure is intended to stabilise the market, following concerns over fluctuating prices and limited availability faced by farmers in recent months.
As part of the initiative, a consignment of 25,000 metric tonnes of urea is due to reach the country, providing an immediate boost to national stocks. Officials indicated that further orders have already been placed to avoid potential shortages during peak demand.
The government estimates that approximately 80,000 tonnes of urea will be required to support paddy cultivation during the upcoming Yala season, making timely distribution a key priority.
Karunaratne also noted that efforts are underway to streamline subsidy payments, with plans to release financial assistance to farmers in full at the start of the season. This, he said, is expected to ease the burden on growers and encourage timely planting.
Authorities maintain that the combined approach of controlled distribution and financial support will help safeguard agricultural output while protecting farmers from rising input costs.