Local resources and expertise need to be properly managed in order to make the country self-sufficient, stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

He made this statement addressing the committee on food security and cost of living at Temple Trees yesterday (3 Nov).

More benefits can be gained by identifying the priority crops and addressing local demands and needs, he added.

The President noted that inflation dropped gradually during the last five years and the Government has been able to maintain the inflation at an average of 6%.

The President said that the Government has a sufficient rice stock and advised officials to release stocks to the market in the case of price hikes. He also advised them to import with tax relief, necessary machinery to increase rice production.

President Rajapaksa advised the Minister of Consumer Affairs to inspect the unlawful acts of inter-merchandisers who affect the price of vegetables. He also instructed them to bring proposals to the Cabinet to ensure that vegetables are protected during transport.

The Committee also discussed on a programme to sell coconuts at Rs.25 each through Sathosa and cooperative shops, as a step to prevent the increase of the price of coconuts.

Attention was also given on importing nearly 6000 metric tons of onions and potatoes using the Government tax relief.