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Uzbekistan May Ban Plastic Bags Starting in 2027
Uzbekistan is considering a ban on the production, import, and use of plastic bags beginning in 2027, according to a draft state program. The initiative aims to promote the use of environmentally friendly, biodegradable materials instead.
A National Program to reduce plastic pollution is planned for 2025–2027. The draft program will be presented by September 2025 and submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers by November 2025.
Under the presidential decree, the following measures are proposed:
- Requiring manufacturers and importers of goods in plastic packaging to establish collection and recycling points for plastic waste.
- Implementing a container return system to allow customers to return used packaging.
- Introducing mandatory recycling fees for plastic packaging.
The program also seeks to limit the use of harmful chemicals in plastics and set requirements for incorporating recycled materials into packaging.
Globally, over 100 countries have already implemented partial or complete bans on single-use plastic bags. From 2010 to 2019, the number of such initiatives tripled, reflecting a global trend toward reducing plastic use.
