Import duty on B’onions, potatoes raised

The import duty on a kilo of Big Onions has been raised from Rs 25 to Rs 30 and a kilo of potatoes from Rs 10 to Rs 30 with effect from yesterday (13).

This is with a view to granting a reasonable price for the farmers of both crops in the wake of the harvesting period, Co-operatives and Internal Trade Minister Johnston Fernando said issuing a media release.

Farmers of Big Onions and potatoes had requested the government to impose the import duty to enable them to obtain fair prices for their crops. As a government which always gives an ear to the farmers and addresses their problems this decision was taken, the Minister said. Meanwhile, arrangements have already been made for the Big Onion farmer in Dambulla to sell his Big Onions at Rs 65 a kilo through Lak Sathosa,the release further stated.