Sri Lanka's Consumer Affairs Authority has reminded sellers and buyers of Atapirikara and Pirikara items—religious robes and related accessories—to ensure products meet mandatory labeling and quality requirements.
The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has issued guidance to traders and consumers purchasing Atapirikara and Pirikara items, emphasizing the need for proper product information and quality assurance. According to the authority, Direction No. 55, established in 2015, requires these items and their packaging to display the Maximum Retail Price, manufacturer or importer details including name and contact information, and the manufacturing date.
The directive applies broadly to individual components including single-layer and double-layer robes, under-robes, bowls, and waistbands. The CAA has advised consumers not to make purchasing decisions based solely on appearance, packaging, or price, instead recommending they verify that all required information is present and inspect items where possible before purchase.
Recent CAA inspections have revealed quality concerns in the marketplace, including instances where single-layer robes were substituted for double-layer versions, incomplete sets, rusted razors, and damaged or dented bowls. The authority has directed sellers to verify supplier credentials, maintain detailed transaction records, and inspect sealed products before sale. The CAA emphasized that traders cannot evade responsibility by claiming they did not manufacture the items or received them defective from suppliers.
Consumers are advised to retain purchase receipts and bills. The authority stressed the cultural and religious significance of these items and committed to continued inspections and enforcement action against violations under the Consumer Affairs Authority Act.
