Sharp increase in salt price in Sri Lanka

Table salt price in Sri Lanka has sharply risen, in addition to the other commodities, the consumers complain.

Market sources say that the price of a 50kg bag crystal salt has gone up from Rs. 675 to Rs. 950.

Ministry of Fisheries sources says that the price has gone up due to the increased use of salt for preserving fish. The price of fish has dropped sharply since the consumers are afraid to eat fish due to the spread of COVID-19 in the country's main fish market, Peliyagoda and several fisheries harbours. 

However, health officials advise the consumers that well-cooked fish cannot spread COVID-19. 

A large number of fish vendors and fishermen have lost livelihood due to the prevailing situation. 

Sri Lanka's salt industry is hit by rains caused by climate change and shortage of labour, industry sources say. The island imports salt and the main supplier is China.