The President stated that fuel prices in Sri Lanka would need to be raised in the coming month of October, in line with rising prices in the global market. However, he noted that he intends to provide a fuel subsidy to alleviate the burden such a price increase would place on the public.
“Given the current price hikes, fuel prices need to be increased this coming October. When we adjust the local price to match import costs, the price is bound to rise on the first of the month. However, we hope to mitigate this by providing a subsidy. That is how governments operate; when a crisis strikes, the burden cannot simply be shifted entirely onto the people—the government must provide some assistance. Isn’t that the right approach?” the President said.