• Dependant on favourable weather conditions 
• Imported stocks arriving on a daily basis, claims Deputy Min. 

The Ministry of Trade, Commerce, and Food Security stated that it would take about three to four months for the country’s salt production to return to normal, depending on favourable weather conditions. However, the ministry added that imported salt stocks are now arriving in the country on a daily basis to ensure that there is no shortage in the market.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce, and Food Security, R.M. Jayawardhana said that for the past seven to eight months, the country’s salt production has dropped sharply — by more than 35% on average — mainly due to continuous rain. 

“There were no salt imports at the beginning of this year. The entire supply came from local production, which is handled by both public and private sector producers,” he said.

Under normal weather conditions, he said that salterns in the country have the capacity to produce around 200,000 metric tonnes (MT) of salt each year, which is more than enough to meet the national demand of about 180,000 MT. 

“But, the rains have disrupted that balance. This is why the decision was made to import some additional salt, just to fill the gap until local production picks up again. Imported salt stocks are being brought in on a daily basis, so, there will not be a shortage,” he said.

In recent times, both consumers and traders reported a steep increase in salt prices, with one kilogram packets of crystal salt reportedly being sold at prices ranging between Rs. 450 and Rs. 500 in some areas. The Consumer Affairs Authority had also received multiple complaints related to inflated salt prices.