Minister of Agriculture Mahindananda Aluthgamage stated that the Nitrogen organic fertilizer which was to be imported for the Maha season this year will not be imported from the Chinese company in question.

The Minister previously confirmed that a microorganism identified as ‘Erwinia’ was discovered in samples brought down ‘unofficially’ to Sri Lanka and tested.

Aluthgamage said that the decision to decision to suspend the importation was made after testing the samples sent by the Chinese fertilizer manufacturing company as laboratory tests revealed the presence of harmful bacteria.

"However, the government has paid attention to provide the required fertilizer to the farmers for the Maha season without any shortage," the Minister said, addressing the press.

The decision to import Nitrogen organic fertilizer with haste came under severe criticism from opposiition parties.