STO Launches Special Ramadan Imports to Stabilize Prices of Essential Foods

The State Trading Organisation (STO) has introduced special imports of essential food items for Ramadan, aiming to maintain affordable prices amid increased demand during the holy month.

The primary items imported under this initiative include onions, eggs, and potatoes, ensuring that these key staples remain accessible to the public at stable prices.

Currently, a case of eggs is priced at MVR 320, while potatoes and onions are available at MVR 310 per bag. Fresh lemons are also available at MVR 145 per 5kg case. Individual purchases can be made at STO People's Choice outlets, where eggs are priced at MVR 2 each, potatoes at MVR 18 per kg, onions at MVR 14 per kg, and lemons at MVR 40 per kg.

Wholesale purchases are available at the STO Wholesale Centre and STO Warehouse in the Industrial Village Zone, with retail purchases offered across all STO People's Choice locations.

STO’s Ramadan import strategy is structured into four key categories:

- Essential foods (onions, eggs, potatoes, coconuts, dates)

- Fresh produce (cucumber, ginger, lime, carrots, oranges, and other fruits and vegetables)

- Processed foods (Nestlé cream, cocoa powder, baked beans, canned milk)

- Cooking ingredients (sunflower oil, vegetable oil, basmati rice)

STO has assured that prices will remain consistent across all regional outlets, with adjustments made only in exceptional cases due to specific market conditions.