December 11, Colombo (LNW): The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has announced that legal action has been taken against 50 retail outlets for selling rice at prices above the government-mandated controlled rate.
Asela Bandara, Director of the CAA, confirmed that the operation was part of an ongoing effort to tackle price manipulation and hoarding of essential goods.
He further revealed that inspections would be ramped up starting today to apprehend those involved in overpricing and stockpiling rice.
The raids were conducted under the provisions of the recent Gazette Extraordinary notifications, signed by the Chairman of the CAA, which set out strict regulations on the sale of rice in the country.
Bandara emphasised that the operations were not only aimed at enforcing the price ceiling but also ensuring that shopkeepers comply with new rules that require them to display the correct prices of rice in clear view for consumers.
As part of the crackdown, any shop found to be in violation of the controlled pricing regulations will face severe penalties. Bandara warned that a fine of Rs. 100,000 would be imposed on those caught selling rice above the designated price, sending a clear message to traders that price gouging will not be tolerated.
