Former President Maithripala Sirisena said action must be taken agaisnt the officials and authorities involved in the procurement process of the "substandard fertilier" which was ordered from China.

"Not a single cent should be paid to China for the substandard fertiliser. We, as a party, are completely against that," Sirisena said speaking to media. The SLFP is the second largest coalition partner of the SLPP-led government.

Former President said paying them USD 6.7 million was an absurd move given th eeocnomic hardships faced by Sri Lanka.

"Everyone who caused this loss to the country must be severely dealt with," Sirisena added.

However, Sri Lanka's refusal to accept substandard organic fertiliser imported from China led to a diplomatic tussle between the two countries.