COLOMBO, July 31 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka decided to import chicken to reduce the local market prices, Trade, Commerce and Food Security Minister Nalin Fernando said on Monday.
The minister told the media that the decision was taken at the meeting of the cost of living committee chaired by President Ranil Wickremesinghe since prices of chicken and eggs have increased in recent months due to high feeding costs and the lack of hatching eggs and hens.
The price of chicken remains as high as 1,450 rupees per kg in the market.
He said the government requested the local poultry product manufacturers to reduce prices but they did not respond.
"Therefore, we decided to allow the import of chicken. The imported chicken will be used mainly for industries," he said.
Meanwhile, the country has also started importing chicken eggs to curb rising prices, and steps will be taken to boost local production. ■