Price of Imported Fresh Fruits to Go Up From Next Month….

Addressing an event in Polonnaruwa, President Sirisena said, the government will impose additional tariff on imported fresh fruit from next month. He noted that the decision was arrived at to discourage imports and in a bid to safeguard the farmers and provide a competitive price for local produce.

The Head of State noted as international trade agreements have ensured the free movement of fruit and vegetables the government cannot ban imports.

President Maithripala Sirisena added a special gazette notification will be issued in the near future, to restrict the unregulated practice of felling of fruit trees.

The President noted the move is to revive the local economy, and to support the health and nutrition needs of the public.