The Armenian government has approved a legislative package that would ban the use of polyethylene bags and single-use plastic containers starting January 1, 2027. Environment Minister Hambardzum Matevosyan announced the initiative during a Cabinet session, Armenpress reports.

The ban includes:

• Distribution and presence of polyethylene bags and sacks in retail outlets, food services, mobile vendors, and fairs
• Applies even to bags thicker than 50 microns
• Exceptions will be made for waste bags made from recycled materials and for packaging used in weighing produce

The law also bans single-use containers and utensils made of plastic or polystyrene foam in the same locations, with an exception for lidded containers used in food weighing. Alternatives will include reusable bags made of paper or fabric and disposable containers made of paper, wood, or foil.

Administrative penalties will apply for violations:

• First offense: warning
• Repeat violations: fines ranging from AMD 100,000 to 150,000

The approved bill will next be submitted to the National Assembly for parliamentary review.