The first consignment of imported coconut milk under the Government’s raw material importation programme is scheduled to undergo clearance and laboratory testing today (31), as part of a coordinated initiative by the Plantation Industries Ministry.

This initiative, approved by the Cabinet, aims to supply essential raw materials to industries linked to the coconut sector, aiming to reduce domestic coconut prices and support local manufacturers. The consignment currently under clearance includes products equivalent to 200 million coconuts. They are in the forms of frozen coconut milk, coconut milk powder and chunked coconut with testa (non-copra), imported as part of the programme initiated in March 2025. The stock will be used primarily in the coconut milk powder industry, which has been facing raw material shortages. The Plantation Industries Ministry expects this move to reduce the pressure on local coconut supplies and contribute to a drop in retail coconut prices.

(dailynews.lk)

(Except for the headline, this story, originally published by dailynews.lk has not been edited by SLM staff)

The Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development states that reports circulating on social media about the possible closure of the Sevanagala Sugar Factory are false.

The ministry adds that neither the government nor Lanka Sugar Company (Pvt) Ltd. (LSCPL) has discussed such a move.

The ministry further states that the Sevanagala Sugar Factory, which operated at a loss under the previous government, is now continuing operations under a new marketing plan and has begun implementing measures to transform it into a profitable institution.

03 individuals were attacked with a sword near the railway line at Nedurana Junction in Eheliyagoda last night (May 30).

A 22-year-old resident of Gatahetta, Iddamalgoda, died after being admitted to the Eheliyagoda Hospital with serious injuries, while the other 02 victims have been transferred to the Ratnapura Hospital for further treatment.

Eheliyagoda Police are conducting further investigations to apprehend the suspects.