Cooperatives and Internal Trade Minister of Sri Lanka Johnston Fernando says the government would import essential items if local traders tried to create an artificial shortage of goods during the festive season.
Fernando has said the Ministry would ensure that consumers would be provided with a steady supply of essential commodities during the upcoming holiday season.
The Minister has directed all cooperatives and state-owned Lanka Sathosa outlets to make necessary arrangements to provide a steady supply of essential items this month.
Meanwhile, the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has been asked to carry out a survey to determine the current quantities of food items that have entered the market and are due to enter the market.
This move is also expected to help the government to determine the level of supplies to the market.