Wholesale traders in Pettah say that the wholesale prices of imported essential food items including rice and lentils have come down.

However, prices of locally produced food items including rice remains high.

Since the end of last month, wholesale prices of many essential food items could be seen gradually decreasing.

Traders in Pettah say that the wholesale prices of imported essential food items such as potatoes, lentils, sugar, chillies, onions etc. are still less than the previous prices even today (15).

Accordingly, the wholesale price of a kilogram of imported dhal is between 430 and 450 rupees.

The wholesale price of imported rice such as Ponni Samba, White Raw Rice, Red Raw Rice etc. is in the range of 170 to 190 rupees.

The wholesale price of a kilogram of imported potatoes in Pettah wholesale shops are sold at 160 and 165 rupees.

The wholesale price of a kilogram of imported big onions is between 140 and 150 rupees and the wholesale price of a kilogram of imported dry chillies is between 1350 and 1500 rupees.

However, the retail prices of potatoes, onions and vegetables in Pettah remain high.

Retailers say that prices have gone up due to the transportation difficulties that have arisen due to the fuel crisis.

Egg prices have also increased compared to last week.

In the meantime, the Restaurant Owners' Association filed a complaint with the Consumer Affairs Authority stating that even though the prices of essential food items have come down, consumers are not receiving that benefit.