The UAE's Ministry of Climate Change and Environment has announced the activation of the second phase of a ministerial resolution, effective January 1, 2026, which bans the import, production, and distribution of single-use plastic consumer products. The ban covers specific items such as beverage cups and lids, disposable tableware (spoons, forks, knives, chopsticks), plates, straws, stirrers, and food containers made of polystyrene foam. It also includes a comprehensive ban on all single-use bags, including paper ones, with a thickness of less than 50 microns. Despite the ministry's call for full compliance, some retail outlets and supermarkets have been found to still be displaying these prohibited products. The ministry stated that non-compliance is expected during the initial stages of implementing such a wide-ranging law. These cases may sometimes be due to existing stockpiles or delays in compliance by certain establishments. The ministry is working with local authorities to monitor, inspect, and take necessary actions against non-compliance. Meanwhile, major retailers like 'Union Cooperative' have confirmed their full adherence to the resolution, stating they were well-prepared and had already provided alternative products.
