It has been further disclosed that Rs.7.5 billion worth of rice was imported to the country in the recent past.

The highest commissions were paid for white rice and while it was available in the Colombo Pettah wholesale market for Rs.54 a kilo, Sathosa acquired the same variety at Rs.59 a kilo.

As a result Sathosa incurred a loss of Rs.11 per kilo for white rice.

The total loss is reported to be Rs.700 million.

An Indian company involved in the business of building materials is said to have imported the bulk of the rice.

The three main rice importers are United Foods, Omvisker Exports and Shamini Exports.