A viral video circulating on social media has ignited outrage after capturing a street food vendor in Aluthkade, Colombo, attempting to overcharge a foreign customer for a local delicacy known as "koththu."

The video depicts the vendor demanding Rs 1900 for the dish, a significant markup from its usual price of Rs 800. When the foreigner declined the exorbitant offer, the vendor resorted to insulting and chasing him away.

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation, particularly for its potential impact on Sri Lanka's tourism industry. Many have expressed concern that such unethical practices tarnish the country's reputation as a tourist destination and harm the livelihoods of honest vendors.

Calls for action have been swift, with demands for price displays to be made mandatory for all street vendors. Advocates argue that transparent pricing would prevent such incidents of price gouging and protect both locals and tourists from exploitation.

This arrogant man in the yellow t-shirt should be arrested so that others who try to fleece a foreigner will also be taught a lesson.
Also, locals should boycott such shops whether at Aluth Kade or elsewhere.
Absolutely despicable behaviour.#LKA #SriLanka #AluthKade pic.twitter.com/j68INFWfYZ

— Munza Mushtaq (@munza14) April 14, 2024

However, one person who commented said the incident could be a misunderstanding. "I just checked the prices through Uber Eats, and they are close to what the restaurant owner offered. This YouTuber asking the cost from the guy who’s working there bypassing the owner is not pleasant. But he acknowledged that he thought the guy in the yellow shirt was not the owner. It looks like a misunderstanding to me. Assuming I’m the restaurant owner in this incident and I offered the correct price, I’ll get pissed if someone questioned my integrity and honesty. In the end, the restaurant can decide whether to provide the service or not," he said.