No need to import coconut oil

(FASTNEWS | COLOMBO) – The All Ceylon Traditional Coconut Oil Manufacturer’s Association says coconut oil importers are attempting to make huge profits through the duty-free concession for essential commodities provided by the government.

Convenor of the Association Buddhika de Silva said the country is self-sufficient in sourcing coconut oil for consumption adding therefore, there is no requirement to import coconut oil.

de Silva said businessmen have imported stocks of unknown oil claiming to be coconut oil adding more than 10,000MT are presently at storage facilities of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.

He said members of the Association have assured of the ability to provide locally produced coconut oil adding foreign reserves must not be wasted.

The Convenor said they are sustaining the industry by providing safe products to local consumers.

de Silva said traditional coconut oil manufacturers will not be able to sell products if importers succeed in releasing imported products to the market.

He said importers have brought down substandard oil unsuitable for consumption.

de Silva warned a situation similar to April 2020 when importers brought down coconut oil containing Aflatoxin will be created once again.