• Warns of control price imposition & separate regulations for large-scale traders/wholesalers & producers 

In response to a sudden surge in egg prices, the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) issued a stern warning to egg traders and producers, urging them to sell eggs at reasonable prices and to avoid arbitrary price increases that inconvenience consumers.

Last week, eggs were sold at prices ranging from Rs. 27 to Rs. 30; however, prices have now escalated significantly, with retail costs climbing to between Rs. 34 and Rs. 45 in local markets. This sharp increase has raised concerns among consumers and prompted the CAA to take action.

Speaking at a special press conference held at the CAA, its Director of Raids and Special Investigations Sanjaya Irasinghe stated: “We have already decided to impose a control price if the traders and producers don’t adhere to our appeal.” He emphasised the importance of maintaining fair pricing, noting that legal action would be pursued against any party that infringes on consumers' rights. Irasinghe also highlighted that this time round, the CAA would implement separate regulations for wholesale traders and producers, stating, “Retail traders and consumers are the parties greatly affected due to the misconduct of large-scale traders and producers.”

Beginning next week, the CAA plans to conduct raids across all 25 districts, with additional raiding officers assigned to areas experiencing significant shortages. He urged traders and producers to comply with the CAA’s appeal, warning that the imposition of a control price would pose challenges for both parties. “The rules and regulations will be very strict,” he added, indicating the seriousness of the situation.