The country will not face a rice shortage until the upcoming Maha cultivation season, the Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development, Wasantha Samarasinghe has stated.

The Minister claimed that the Paddy Marketing Board currently holds nearly 140,000 metric tons of red and white rice stocks, which would help ensure a stable supply in the local market.

He further noted that arrangements have been made to import sufficient quantities of substitute rice varieties to meet demand and prevent potential shortages.

Commenting on the broader economic situation, Samarasinghe said that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has created challenges in the energy sector. However, he stressed that the government would not allow the country's economy to collapse and would continue efforts to strengthen export earnings and the tourism industry while maintaining foreign exchange stability.

The Minister also stated that the government has already begun preparations to import fertilizer required for the next Maha cultivation season. He noted that, as with the previous Maha and Yala seasons, necessary interventions are being made to ensure an uninterrupted fertilizer supply.

In addition, the fertilizer subsidy has been increased to Rs. 30,000, according to Minister Samarasinghe.

Addressing the recent increase in rice prices, Minister Samarasinghe said the rise was largely due to a shortage of Keeri Samba rice. He added that the government had decided to import only substitute rice varieties this year as part of efforts to stabilize prices while protecting both farmers and consumers.

The government remains committed to implementing policy measures that balance the interests of producers and consumers, the Minister of Trade said.