The Hector Kobbekaduwa Agrarian and Research Institute said that this measure was taken uplift the local potato farmer.

Accordingly, the tax on imported potato per kilo which was 25 rupees is now 40 Rupees per kilo.

At the present, potatoes cultivated locally during the Maha Season is flowing into the market and is priced between Rs 80 - 100.

However imported potatoes was sold at prices between Rs. 60 - 80.

The Government says they hope to maintain an equal price for both local and imported potatoes.