The All Island Canteen Owners Association has decided to increase the price of a cup of milk tea to Rs.100 in line with the decision by milk powder importers to increase prices.
President of the Association Asela Sampath speaking to NewsRadio said the decision was reached after taking into consideration the increase in prices of gas, sugar, and tea leaves as well.
Sampath said they were compelled to increase prices given the current circumstances.
He said a 200ml cup of milk tea will include 15g of milk powder. He added restaurant owners do not want to lose customers and will ensure that a nutritious cup of tea is provided that is not diluted.
Sampath said they informed restaurants and shop owners of the decision and warned that they refrain from selling a 50ml cup of tea between Rs.60-70.
He noted that while a gas cylinder is Rs.2,670 shop owners purchase cylinders at a black market rate of Rs.5,000.
Sampath said a kilogram of sugar is Rs.190 while a kilogram of tea leaves is between Rs.1,200-Rs.1,300 adding that workers’ salaries must also be paid.
He said the price of a cup of milk tea will reduce, in the event the price of milk powder and other commodities reduce.
