Sri Lanka, Sept. 8 -- Several profitable Lanka Sathosa outlets have been forced to close, while others are facing possible closure after property owners sought the return of buildings leased to the state-run retailer, Deputy Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security R. M. Jayawardhana told Parliament.

Responding to a question raised by SLPP MP Chanaka Madugoda, the Deputy Minister said the Lanka Sathosa outlets in Karapitiya and Hikkaduwa had been closed due to difficulties related to the availability of suitable space.

He also revealed that the Thanamalvila outlet is facing closure after its building owner, former Minister Jagath Pushpakumara, requested the return of the premises.

He said approximately 31 Lanka Sathosa outlets ac...