The Government is considering easing restrictions on the production of by-products from rice, according to K. D. Lal Kantha.

Speaking at a meeting of the Mahaweli Water Management Committee, the minister noted that Sri Lanka currently produces only about 50% of its maize requirement locally, with the remainder imported.

He said that due to limited land available for maize cultivation, the country must focus on increasing rice production instead.

The government does not plan to expand paddy cultivation land and has urged farmers to follow guidelines issued by the Department of Agriculture to improve yields.

The minister also highlighted the need to strengthen post-harvest processes such as paddy drying and storage to prevent large volumes entering the market at once.

He emphasised that ensuring fair income for farmers and strengthening food security remain key priorities.

Lal Kantha further noted that the Paddy Marketing Board has faced limitations in intervening in the market due to storage and staffing constraints.

He also encouraged farmers to increase the cultivation of Keeri Samba rice, as Sri Lanka still imports the variety to meet local demand.