Sri Lanka: Higher and higher

The plight of the consumer keeps getting worse with prices of gas, electricity, fuel and other items increasing day-by-day while a chain reaction has been set off by the depreciation of the Rupee.

Transport costs, food prices sharply shot up during the week with a plain-tea going up by Rs. 2.50, a string-hopper by 50 cts and an average lunch packet up by Rs. 20.


But consumers are in for more heartburn as domestic gas cylinder suppliers are haggling with the government for a further increase and the CEB also warning of a hike, citing additional costs incurred following fuel price increase as reasons.

The depreciation of the rupee as against major foreign currencies is further aggravating the situation with prices of all imported items including vehicle spares, food items, electronic items increasing in price.

The price increase is being felt mostly by the middle-class income groups with their earnings being limited.

Sunday Times (Sri Lanka)