• Alleges ‘poor resource mgt., inefficient distribution’ 
• Expecting 648,200 MT of paddy from Maha 2025

Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Cooperative Development Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe claimed that the current shortage of red rice in the market emerged as a result of mismanagement by previous governments, while assuring the public that measures are being taken to address the situation.

“We understand that red rice is a staple for many, especially during the Thai Pongal festival. The shortage has raised concerns, and I want to clarify the reasons behind it. Red rice cultivation has historically been concentrated in areas such as Matara, Galle, Hambantota, and other parts of the Southern and Eastern Provinces. Last year (in 2024), a total of 277,315 hectares (ha) were cultivated across the Yala and Maha seasons, yielding 1.1 million metric tonnes (MT) of paddy. 

However, due to the poor management of the resources and distribution by previous administrations, there is a noticeable scarcity now. The Maha season of 2024 saw a cultivation area of 277,000 ha, producing approximately 706,000 MT of paddy, while the Yala season contributed 403,097 MT from a similar cultivated area. Despite these figures, inefficient distribution policies have left the market short of red rice.”

Samarasinghe provided reassurance about the upcoming Maha season during this year, where 161,067 ha have already been cultivated, with an expected yield of 648,200 MT. 

“There is no reason for a shortage in 2025,” he emphasised. He criticised the previous Government for policies that he claimed disrupted the market. He pointed to a pre-election initiative where 20 kilograms of red rice per family were distributed indiscriminately, even to individuals who typically consume white rice. 

“This ill-advised policy created an imbalance in the market. By giving red rice to people unaccustomed to eating it, they inadvertently caused a shortage for those who rely on it,” he explained. 

“We have conducted surveys in paddy growing areas, mills, and warehouses to better understand the situation and prevent future shortages,” he concluded.