It was announced at the cabinet media briefing,  that the government had taken steps to introduce a certified price for rubber from March 15.

However, small rubber estate owners point out that several issues have arisen when implementing this process.

Rubber cultivators were in a crisis situation as the price of rubber drastically reduced during the last year.

As a result many had let go the trade of tapping rubber as they did not receive an amount that would cover their costs.

As a solution to this issue, the budget proposed to introduce a concessionary programme for rubber.

The programme will see a guaranteed purchase price of rubber to be Rs.350 per kg and the remainder of the cost to be given by the government.

Although the  efforts of the government need to be commended, the small rubber estate owners pointed out that obtaining  relief through this programme is difficult.

• COP28: Breakthrough deal on loss and damage fund
• Railway operations along Up Country Railway Line disrupted
• Police OIC arrested over soliciting a bribe
• World AIDS Day commemorated on Dec. 1
• Heavy showers to continue