Rice imported by private importers has officially been released to the market, addressing the ongoing rice shortage in the country.

Customs cleared the first batch of imported rice yesterday (11), amounting to 75,000 kilograms. This shipment includes Samba and white rice sourced from India. The gove ment recently authorized private importers to bring in rice to tackle the scarcity, leading to swift action by importers.

The Essential Commodities Importers Association confirmed that additional shipments are expected to arrive today (12) and tomorrow (13), ensuring a steady supply.

Dr. Samitha Perera, Chairman of the Sathosa Institute, expressed optimism about the market's stabilization, stating on the 'New Parliament' program on TV Derana last night that the influx of imported rice would resolve the shortage.

However, challenges remain. Entrepreneur Chandralal Gunasekara, also featured on the program, highlighted difficulties in maintaining rice supplies in his shops, emphasizing the urgency of addressing distribution issues.