11 hours ago
Phase 3 of single-use plastic bags ban in Oman from July 1
Muscat – Environment Authority (EA) has announced that the third phase of a national initiative to ban single-use plastic shopping bags will come into effect on July 1, 2025.
This stage broadens the scope of the ban to include additional segments of the retail and food sectors. Shops selling fruits and vegetables, packaging units, grocery stores, sweet shops, candy factories, bakeries, gift shops and outlets selling bread, pastries and confectionery will be required to stop providing single-use plastic bags and switch to sustainable alternatives such as reusable cloth or paper bags.
The authority has called on businesses and consumers to cooperate actively to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment for future generations. The measure aligns with Oman Vision 2040 goals to curb pollution and promote sustainable consumption.
In January 2024, Decision No 8/2024 set out a phased approach to ban all single-use plastic shopping bags by 2027. The phased rollout is designed to help businesses and consumers adapt gradually, EA stated.
The first phase, which began on July 1, 2024, targeted pharmacies, hospitals and clinics. The second phase, effective from January 1, 2025, covers textiles and fabric stores, clothing outlets, tailors, eyewear shops, mobile pho-ne vendors and repair services, watch shops, furniture retailers and household goods suppliers.
Businesses found violating the ban face fines between RO50 and RO1,000. Repeat offences within a month will result in doubled penalties.
