Manama: Bahrain is set to enforce a ban on the manufacture, import, and sale of single-use plastic bags with thicknesses of less than 57 microns starting August 20. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has stressed the significance of adherence to Resolution (7) of 2026, urging manufacturers, importers, and traders to comply with the new regulation.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Ministry has called on businesses to utilize the remaining time to prepare for the regulation's implementation. This includes clearing existing non-compliant inventory, halting production or import of such items, and ensuring the availability of approved alternatives. These measures are aimed at helping the commercial sector fully comply with the regulation and avoid administrative violations.
Shaikh Hamad bin Salman Al Khalifa, Assistant Undersecretary for Domestic and Foreign Trade at the Ministry, noted that the regulation's implementation is in line with the approved legal and regulatory framework, coordinated with the Supreme Council for Environment. This initiative aims to support Bahrain's national efforts in environmental protection, sustainable development, and alignment with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030 by reducing pollution and promoting recycling.
The regulation exempts household waste bags, hazardous healthcare waste bags, pre-packaged food packaging, and bags manufactured for export. Plastic shopping bags with a thickness of 57 microns or more are still permitted due to their reusability. The regulation further encourages using environmentally friendly alternatives like cloth, paper, and fully biodegradable bags.
The Assistant Undersecretary highlighted that the Ministry has completed the initial phase of raising awareness within the commercial sector regarding the regulation. The second phase focuses on increasing awareness among manufacturers, importers, traders, and consumers about the regulation's requirements and the need for thorough preparation before enforcement.
He commended the commercial sector's cooperation with the Ministry's regulatory decisions and expressed optimism that this collaboration will persist. This cooperation is anticipated to enhance sector readiness ahead of the regulation, bolster environmental security, promote proper waste management, and support the sustainable use of Bahrain's resources.