However inside sources told srilankamirror that the 305 Sathosa outlets island-wide are faced with a severe shortage of essential items after suppliers halted their dealings with Sathosa over non-payment of dues.

Sathosa is said to owe suppliers Rs.5 billion.

Suppliers say they have not received their dues for more than a month.

The commodities that would have their prices reduced from tomorrow are as follows:

White sugar one kilo Rs.80

Sprats one kilo Rs.384

Maldive Fish one kilo Rs.1740

Wheat flour one kilo Rs.87

Dry chilly one kilo Rs.245

Green gram one kilo Rs.260

Salmon (one can 425 grams) Rs.132.50

Salmon (one can 155 grams) Rs.64.50

Imported white rice one kilo Rs. 50

Nadu rice one kilo Rs.55

Samba rice one kilo Rs.60