UAE announces total ban on single-use plastic bags from 2024 – News

From January 1, 2026, the country will ban the use of plastic products such as cups, plates, tableware, containers, and boxes

The UAE will ban single-use plastic shopping bags from January 1, 2024, it was announced on Tuesday. A ministerial resolution bans the import, production and distribution of single-use plastic shopping bags from next year, state news agency Wam said.

This will serve as a prelude to banning products made from single-use materials. From January 1, 2026, the country will ban the use of plastic or foam items such as cups, plates, cutlery, containers and boxes. These include spoons, forks, knives, chopsticks, straws and stirrers.

The decision excluded some products, including thin pouch rolls used to keep food fresh. Products that are exported or re-exported are exempt from duty provided they are clearly labeled. Bags made from recycled materials in the country are also exempt.

Authorities are urged to develop mechanisms to reduce the production of single-use materials to package items such as earplugs, cigarettes, wipes and balloons.

The pan-UAE measure aims to protect the environment from plastic pollution. The decision limits the consumption of plastic and regulates its use at the federal level.

According to the decision, all stakeholders, including relevant authorities and consumers, must work together to reduce reliance on single-use plastics. They will take steps to get consumers to switch to multi-purpose products. Authorities must also ensure that replacements are readily available in shopping centers and retail outlets.

So far, at least four emirates have announced bans or regulations on the use of plastic. In Abu Dhabi, a ban on single-use plastics came into effect on June 1, while in Dubai, retailers have been charging 25 fils per bag of plastic since July 1. Sharjah will impose a duty of 25 fils on each single-use plastic bag from October 1, 2022, and all bans will come into effect on January 1, 2024. Umm Al Quwain will ban single-use plastic bags from January 1, 2023.

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