The ban on plastic bags and tableware in Armenia will come into force on January 1, 2027, and the deadline for implementing the law will not be extended. Armenian Minister of Environment Hambardzum Matevosyan made the announcement while speaking to journalists on the sidelines of COP17 in Yerevan.
The minister recalled that a ban on the circulation of single-use plastic products in Armenia had been under discussion for many years. Initially, the authorities opted for a transitional approach, allowing the use of plastic bags with a thickness of at least 50 microns. However, the results of implementing this measure showed that the restriction had not been sufficiently effective. Consequently, a decision was made to introduce stricter regulations by completely banning the circulation of plastic bags and tableware, Sputnik Armenia reports.
“Together with the Ministry of Economy, we have repeatedly conducted awareness campaigns for private companies, informing them about possible alternatives to plastic,” the minister said.
According to Matevosyan, he has gained the impression that the private sector has done its part and is ready for the new regulations.
Under the adopted law, the sale of plastic bags and tableware in stores and their distribution at food service establishments will be prohibited. Exceptions will apply only to packaged goods (sugar, flour, etc.), garbage bags, and plastic bottles with caps. A warning will be issued for a first violation, while repeated violations will result in fines ranging from 100,000 to 150,000 Armenian drams.
