Colombo, Sri Lanka – 03 September 2026 – Sri Lankan consumers witnessed a mixed, but generally favourable, trend in commodity prices today, as detailed in the latest Daily Price Report released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL). The report for 03 September 2026 indicates significant price reductions for several essential vegetables and fish varieties, primarily attributed to improved supply from key agricultural and coastal regions.
The daily snapshot of market dynamics, crucial for understanding inflationary pressures and consumer purchasing power, highlights the direct impact of supply chain efficiency on everyday household expenses.
Vegetable Market Sees Notable Declines
The vegetable sector experienced a welcome drop in prices for several popular items across major markets:
- Carrot: The price of carrots declined in the Dambulla market, with retail prices moving from Rs. 215.00 per kg yesterday to Rs. 185.00 per kg today. This reduction is attributed to a favourable supply stream originating from the Nuwara Eliya and Bandarawela areas.
- Tomato: Similarly, tomatoes in the Dambulla market saw a decline, with retail prices falling from Rs. 270.00 per kg to Rs. 240.00 per kg. This positive shift is due to good supply from Sigiriya and Galewela.
- Brinjal: Brinjal prices decreased in both the Pettah and Dambulla markets. In Pettah, retail prices dropped from Rs. 450.00 to Rs. 400.00 per kg, while Dambulla saw a decrease from Rs. 290.00 to Rs. 255.00 per kg. Favourable supply from Embilipitiya, Sigiriya, Kalthota, and Kekirawa areas contributed to this decline.
However, not all vegetables followed this downward trend. Green Chilli prices in the Dambulla market registered an increase, climbing from Rs. 355.00 per kg to Rs. 455.00 per kg. This surge is due to limited supply from Sigiriya and Galewela areas.
Fish Prices Ease in Peliyagoda
The Peliyagoda fish market, a key indicator for seafood prices, reported positive news for consumers:
- Paraw: Wholesale prices for Paraw fish declined significantly, moving from Rs. 1,600.00 per kg yesterday to Rs. 1,400.00 per kg today. This drop is a result of favourable supply from the Northern coastal area.
- Salaya: Salaya fish prices also continued their downward trend in Peliyagoda, with wholesale prices decreasing from Rs. 650.00 per kg to Rs. 600.00 per kg. This further decline is also linked to favourable supply from the Northern coastal area.
Coconut Prices Decline
Beyond vegetables and fish, the report also noted a reduction in the price of coconuts. In the Dambulla market, the price per nut fell from Rs. 123.00 to Rs. 105.00. This decline is attributed to a favourable supply originating from the Ibbagamuwa and Kurunegala areas.
Broader Market Stability
While specific commodity prices showed movement, the wider market for staples such as rice, dhal, and sugar remained relatively stable. Retail prices for Samba, Nadu, and Kekulu rice varieties in major markets like Marandagahamula and Narahenpita saw only minor fluctuations or held steady compared to yesterday. Similarly, imported Red Dhal and White Sugar experienced marginal changes.
The Central Bank’s daily price report offers vital insights into the nation’s economic pulse, reflecting the interplay of agricultural yields, fishing hauls, and logistical efficiencies across Sri Lanka.
Source: Read original document
