Head of the association of traders involved in the retail sale of essential commodities Bandula Jayamanne confirmed this, saying the promise was given at a recent meeting at the ministry of commerce.

The 10 foodstuffs are imported dried sprats, dhal, sugar, wheat flour, green peas, Maldives fish, turmeric flour, dried chillies, coriander and undu.

Jayamanne said however, they were yet to be informed of the decision in writing.

When contacted, chairman of the Consumer Affairs Authority Hasitha Tilakaratne said he has not been told by the ministry about such a decision.

Reports say raids to nab traders who sell these items above the price ceilings have been suspended.