Manama: Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce, announced the implementation of Ministerial Decision (7) of 2026, which prohibits the manufacture, import, or use of single-use plastic bags less than 57 microns thick. This decision is part of Bahrain’s initiative to promote sustainability and reduce plastic waste as part of its broader commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the ban forms a key component of the National Waste Management Strategy, aligning with international environmental best practices. The prohibition includes all single-use plastic bags below 57 microns, extending to those with plastic components used for carrying goods and equipment, regardless of handle presence. While the legislation exempts household waste bags, hazardous healthcare waste bags, packaging for medicines and food, and bags intended for export, it mandates comprehensive compliance enforcement.
The Ministry’s Inspection and Standards Directorate will rigorously inspect products before entry through ports and conduct ongoing market monitoring. This enforcement effort is supported by inspection campaigns and field surveys in collaboration with the Inspection Directorate to ensure adherence to the new regulations.
To facilitate compliance, a detailed guidance manual in both Arabic and English will be provided to economic stakeholders. This manual aims to raise awareness and ensure thorough understanding of the new requirements. The decision is the result of collaborative efforts between the Ministry and the Supreme Council for Environment, involving a review of regional regulations, a study of global best practices, and an analysis of environmental benefits such as reducing carbon emissions and waste.
A six-month transitional period has been granted to allow businesses to deplete existing stock and adapt to the new standards. This measure builds on previous efforts, including Ministerial Decision (11) of 2019 on plastic product regulations, the 2021 ban on plastic water bottles under 200ml, and the 2022 ban on single-use plastic bags under 35 microns.