The Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association with the approval of the Government and the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medial Services commenced its weekly auctions beginning with one auction per week at the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce on 9^th April 2020 at 2.00 pm. The last rubber auction took place on 13^th March 2020 and the next auction scheduled for 17^th March 2020 did not take place due to the Government imposed curfew.

Approval to conduct the weekly rubber auctions were granted subsequent to a discussion the industry representatives had with Presidential Taskforce Chairman Hon. Basil Rajapaksa on 4^th April 2020 with a view to revive the industry, and support all stakeholders amidst the prevailing situation in the face of COVID -19 pandemic.

The Brokers, Traders’ and Buyers’ of Rubber were requested by the CRTA, to strictly adhere to the guidelines on COVID-19 preparedness for workplace (rubber auction) specified by Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medial Services during grading of rubber samples and the auction process.

The Ministry of Plantation Industries and Export Agriculture facilitated this initiative by requesting the respective authorities to assist the rubber sector and its supply chain to allow commencement of work and obtain curfew passes without disturbances.

The quantities on offer at the 9^th April 2020 auction were Latex / Skim / Scrap Crepe – 298,650 Kg and RSS – 26,971 Kg excluding re-prints from the last auction held on 13^th March 2020.

Highest price paid for Latex Crepe 1X amounted to Rs. 350/- per Kg. RSS grades remained unquoted.

The Colombo Rubber Traders’ Association wishes to continue the auctions with one sale per week and will resume to two sales per week once the prevailing situation in the country returns to normalcy.