Plantations and Community Infrastructure Minister Samantha Vidyaratne stated the Government has decided to provide an additional fertiliser subsidy to small-scale tea plantation owners.  He noted the necessary funds for the initiative have already been allocated by the Treasury.

Vidyaratne further stated that although there is currently no shortage of fertiliser in the country, fertiliser prices may increase in the future. Elaborating further, he stated, “Given the current global situation, fertiliser prices have increased, while shipping costs and maritime insurance premiums have also risen. As a result, the cost of imported fertiliser is expected to continue increasing. Despite these challenges, we will ensure a continuous supply of fertiliser to the country. To ease the burden on farmers caused by the rising prices, the Government previously provided paddy farmers with a subsidy of Rs. 5,000 per hectare (ha) as an additional relief measure in light of the prevailing conflict situation. This subsidy is applicable for up to two ha, allowing farmers to receive a maximum of Rs. 10,000,” he said. He further stated that the Government had decided to provide an additional subsidy of Rs. 5,000 to small-scale tea plantation owners in light of the ongoing global conflict situation.  “Accordingly, while fertiliser prices may rise, there will be no shortage of fertiliser in the country. The Government is increasing and providing these subsidies in order to minimise the financial burden on farmers resulting from price increases,” he added.