Big Sri Lankan onion farmers say they are facing difficult times due to the large amounts of big onion imports. They say they had an abundant harvest, but some are now left with piles of unsold onions. The farmers said their problems started when imported big onions began to flood the market. Big onions have been imported from countries such as Pakistan and India. Local farmers have asked the government to reimpose the tax on onions as they have received a bumper harvest this time.
Last week, Agriculture Minister Mahinda Amaraweera confirmed that the farmers had had a bountiful harvest. “I have requested the Finance Ministry secretary to impose a tax on imported onions but to no avail.” He said he will discuss the issue with the President and try to find a solution to the problem.
Source: sundaytimes.lk