The Food Policy and Security Committee convened under the leadership of Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Co-operative Development, Wasantha Samarasinghe.
The meeting took place at the Presidential Secretariat.During the meeting, the importance of a strong data system to make policy decisions related to food security was strongly emphasized.
Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe pointed out that accurate data and information are crucial when making decisions related to food security, and the government is not willing to take the risk of making decisions without such data.As a result, discussions were held on prioritizing the development of a proper data and information system.
Additionally, the committee focused on ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential food items and maintaining price control during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.The purchase of paddy was also subject to in-depth discussion.
The committee discussed expanding the networks of Cooperative and Lanka Sathosa outlets to provide essential goods to consumers at affordable prices.Minister Samarasinghe gave instructions to committee members to take necessary steps to prevent food wastage as well.
Several key areas were also discussed, including developing a National Food Security Policy Framework, maintaining an essential food information system, introducing a new program based on internationally recognised standards, and increasing local production and distribution through scientific, evidence-based strategies. The meeting further addressed food security, food pricing, and market management.
Key concerns discussed included ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential food items during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year season and maintaining price controls on these goods.
A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to the paddy purchasing process, particularly the loan facilities provided to mill owners for purchasing paddy. The necessity of conducting a thorough review of the quantities purchased under these loan schemes was also emphasised.
The meeting also focused on expanding the Cooperative and ‘Sathosa’ networks to provide essential goods at affordable prices to consumers. Additionally, strategies were discussed to regulate prices and create a consumer-friendly market.
