Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath stated that there would be no need to increase the price of Litro gas cylinders if Sri Lanka maintains sufficient gas and fuel storage facilities.
He made these remarks at the Cabinet media briefing held today (07) at the Government Information Department. The Minister noted that global LPG prices have increased, mainly due to fluctuations in the Saudi Aramco price index, which directly impacts local gas prices. He said the price per metric ton of gas rose from USD 541.25 in March to USD 787.50 in April.
Despite this increase, Litro has raised its gas cylinder price by only Rs. 775, although the actual cost increase is around Rs. 985 per cylinder. In comparison, LAUGFS would need to increase prices by Rs. 1,070 based on its cost structure.
The Minister also stated that a new tender for gas supply has been awarded to Geo Gas, a US-based company, replacing the previous Oman supplier. He explained that 80% of gas is sourced from the United States and 20% from South Africa, ensuring smooth transportation despite the current global situation.
At present, about 22,000 metric tons of gas are stored in a facility in the Maldives and transported to Sri Lanka in shipments of 3,900 metric tons every three days. The government also plans to further improve storage facilities to ensure a stable supply in the future.
