The highest vegetable prices recorded within the country in recent history was registered today (02), the Peliyagoda Manning Public Trade Association said.

It is reported that the prices of vegetables have increased as a result of the prevailing heavy rainfall and reduced yield.

Commenting on the current situation, D.P. Prasad Susantha of Peliyagoda Manning Public Trade Association said the farmers have even refrained from sending the vegetables to the markets in Colombo.

“Today, farmers have not sent vegetables to Colombo. Carrots are Rs. 600, beans are Rs. 600, tomatoes are Rs. 600, fish are Rs. 600, chillies are Rs. 1000, green chillies are Rs. 500, and brinjals are Rs. 500 [per kilogram]. The prices have not increased to these figures even in history. the prices of vegetables has increased with the rain”, he added.

Meanwhile, the Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian Research and Training Institute had convened a press conference today in order to clarify the facts regarding the excessive increase in vegetable prices.

Commenting regarding the matter, its Additional Director Dr. Samantha Palliyaguru expressed that the main reason for the vegetable prices hike is the decrease in supply.

Furthermore, he mentioned that the increase in the demand for vegetables in the festive season, has also resulted in the increase of the prices.