N.K. Jayawardena, Chairman of the All Ceylon Bakery Owners’ Association, issued a stern warning that bakery products, excluding bread, could see a price hike of ten rupees, while the cost of a kilo of cake might rise by one hundred rupees if the government does not intervene to reduce the prices of eggs, sugar, and onions before next Wednesday(20).
Highlighting the current wholesale prices, Jayawardena pointed out that eggs are priced at 60 rupees per piece, sugar at 305 to 310 rupees per kilo, and salt between 400 and 500 rupees per kilo. These soaring costs are identified as the primary drivers behind the potential increase in bakery product prices.
Expressing concern over the impact on consumers, particularly during the upcoming Christmas season, Jayawardena emphasized the need for eggs to be available to bakeries at a price of 40 rupees. The Bakery Owners’ Association plans to request the government’s assistance, urging the import of eggs from India until the conclusion of the festive season, including Christmas.
Jayawardena underscored the essential role of onions in producing various bakery items such as fish bread, egg bread, cutlets, and patties.