President of the Ceylon Sweets Owners’ Association M. D. Mr. Suriya Kumara has expressed his views as follows. In the last eight months alone the price of wheat flour has increased by 70%. It is also known as the largest increase in the price of flour in the history of the country. Bakery owners as well as confectioners are helpless at this time due to lack of supply.
Due to the shortage of flour, the main ingredient in confectionery production, sweets cannot be supplied as per the demand during the festive season. Due to the shortage of flour, it is not possible to plan the production process.
But as a solution to this shortage, Serendib is trying to supply the required quantities of flour even at inflated prices. Both of these companies now have a number of issues regarding the quality of the flour they receive. The flour now makes a difference in the taste of biscuits, cakes and sweets.
We understand the reality of this problem. It is the result of a world catastrophe. There is no need to blame the government for everything .But we urge the government to take steps to import the necessary raw materials for the products as well. There is a great deal of regret about that.
However, if these problems are not resolved soon, there will be a huge shortage of bakery products, including bread, and sweets during the festive season.