Colombo, 02 September 2026 – Sri Lankan consumers witnessed a notable increase in the retail prices of several essential commodities, including key vegetables, fish, and staple onions, according to the latest Daily Price Report released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL). The report, detailing market movements as of September 02, 2026, indicates that limited supply from critical agricultural regions and coastal areas is primarily driving these upward trends.
The comprehensive daily summary provides a snapshot of wholesale and retail prices across major markets, highlighting significant fluctuations that could impact household budgets nationwide.
Vegetable Prices See Sharp Increases
The vegetable sector experienced significant price hikes, largely attributed to reduced supply channels. In the Dambulla market, the price of Beans surged from Rs. 305.00 per kilogram yesterday to Rs. 405.00 today. This increase is primarily due to a limited supply originating from Nuwara Eliya and Bandarawela, key vegetable-producing regions.
Similarly, Carrot prices in Dambulla rose from Rs. 165.00 to Rs. 215.00 per kilogram, also impacted by restricted supplies from Nuwara Eliya and Bandarawela. Consumers buying Cabbage faced higher costs in both Pettah and Dambulla markets, with prices climbing from Rs. 250.00 to Rs. 310.00 per kilogram in Pettah and Rs. 145.00 to Rs. 185.00 in Dambulla, citing limited availability from the Nuwara Eliya area.
Green Chilli also saw its price increase in the Pettah market, moving from Rs. 500.00 to Rs. 600.00 per kilogram, a direct consequence of reduced supply from Jaffna and Nochchiyagama areas.
Fish Market Witnesses Uptick in Linna Prices
The fresh fish markets also reported price adjustments. The wholesale price of Linna increased in both Peliyagoda and Negombo fish markets, settling at Rs. 700.00 per kilogram today from Rs. 650.00 yesterday. This rise is attributed to a limited catch and supply from the Southern coastal area, affecting availability across the western coast.
Other Key Commodities on the Rise
Beyond vegetables and fish, other essential food items also registered price increases. The Dambulla market saw Local Red Onion prices climb from Rs. 280.00 to Rs. 305.00 per kilogram, mainly due to restricted supply from the Puttalam and Mannar regions.
Imported Potato prices in Dambulla also increased, moving from Rs. 200.00 to Rs. 225.00 per kilogram. The report attributes this increase to the availability of higher quality varieties in the market, suggesting a shift in consumer preference or supply chain dynamics for imported goods.
Stable Prices for Selected Items
While several commodities experienced upward price revisions, the report also indicated relative stability in other crucial food categories. Prices for Tomato, Pumpkin, Snake Gourd, and Lime generally remained steady across the surveyed markets. Similarly, prices for various rice varieties, including Samba, Nadu, and Kekulu (White and Red), displayed minimal fluctuation.
Other stable items included Dried Chilli (Imported), Coconut, Coconut oil, Red Dhal, Sugar (White), and Eggs, providing some respite for consumers amidst the rising costs of fresh produce.
Economic Implications and Future Outlook
The consistent increases in prices for essential goods, predominantly driven by supply shortages, underscore ongoing challenges within Sri Lanka’s agricultural and distribution networks. Consumers are advised to monitor market trends closely, as these daily fluctuations can significantly impact the cost of living.
The CBSL’s daily price reports serve as a vital tool for policymakers, businesses, and the public to understand the dynamics of food inflation and supply chain pressures in the country.
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