Welimada potato farmers protest against imports amid market pressures

Potato farmers in Sri Lanka’s Welimada region staged a demonstration this week, urging the government to halt potato imports in order to protect the local market. The protest, organised by the All-Island Potato Farmers Association, took place on Monday in front of the Keppetipola Dedicated Economic Centre, a key hub for regional agricultural trade.

Growers from Boralanda and surrounding areas marched from the Kappetipola state bus depot to the economic centre, carrying placards and banners as they called for stronger government intervention to support domestic production. As part of the protest, farmers refused to bring their potatoes to the market, leaving stalls open but without local supply. While traders were able to purchase other vegetables brought by farmers from neighbouring districts, the absence of potatoes disrupted normal operations.

Tensions rose when the protesting farmers attempted to enter the economic centre a second time. Police officials instructed the group to remain outside the premises and ensured the protest did not obstruct nearby roads. Authorities also requested that the demonstration conclude before midday due to advanced-level examinations scheduled in the area.

The farmers argue that continued potato imports are undermining their ability to sell locally grown produce at sustainable prices, and they are calling for policy changes to stabilise the market ahead of future harvests.

source: sundaytimes.lk

photo: potatonewstoday.com