If those commodities are to be sold at the specified prices, the taxes imposed on them should be removed, says the association of essential commodity importers and traders.

Its president Nihal Seneviratne said sugar and grams are two such commodities.

Presently, sugar has to be imported at Rs. 115 a kilo, of which Rs. 30 is government taxes, he said, noting that if that that tax is removed, sugar can be sold at the Rs. 95 price.

The controlled prices could lead to inconveniences by retailers, he said.

Minister Risath Badiudeen said the controlled prices for 16 essential commodities would come into force today (15), following the issuance of the relevant gazette last night.

The tax amendments are not applicable to these commodities, and traders selling them at higher prices will be nabbed from today, he warned.

Ministry secretary T.M.K.B. Tennakoon said the Consumer Affairs Authority has been given the necessary instructions.

Also, the tax on sugar will be reduced soon, he added.