Vietnam proposes ending the free distribution of non-biodegradable plastic bags at supermarkets.
A draft Decree detailing several articles of the Law on Environmental Protection proposes progressively phasing down the manufacture and importation of single-use plastic products and non-biodegradable plastic packaging.
The draft sets two consecutive implementation milestones, with a dedicated timeline for thin plastic bags.
Reusable shopping bags made from discarded fishing nets are introduced as an alternative to single-use plastic bags. Photo: Nguyen Thuy.Specifically, the draft proposes that from December 31, 2030, the manufacture and import of non-biodegradable plastic bags with a single-film thickness under 30 micrometers (µm) shall cease. The draft carves out two exemptions: bags manufactured for export, and bags produced or imported to package products and goods for market distribution.
Under the proposal, following December 31, 2030, the manufacture and import of single-use plastic straws, knives, spoons, forks, and expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam containers for food packaging and takeaway shall cease. Single-use plastic products certified with the Vietnam Green Label are granted an exemption.
To meet this milestone, the draft proposes discontinuing the manufacture and import of non-biodegradable plastic packaging, except for export production and the production or import of non-biodegradable plastic packaging used to package market-distributed commodities.
Regarding commercial circulation and consumption, provincial People's Committees are slated to promulgate regulations and organize local plastic waste governance. Accordingly, localities are responsible for enforcing bans on the commercial circulation and use of non-biodegradable plastic bags with a single-film thickness under 30 µm.
Across commercial shopping centers, supermarkets, hotels, and tourist resorts, the draft mandates curbing the use of single-use plastics. These establishments will also cease complimentary distribution across three product groups: plastic packaging, non-biodegradable plastic bags, and single-use plastic items.
Provincial People's Committees will promulgate policies to support domestic manufacturers in transitioning to alternatives to single-use plastics and non-biodegradable plastic bags. Paired with consumption reduction measures across retail outlets and hospitality venues, these policies aim to foster local supplies of sustainable alternatives.
For manufacturers and importers, the draft decree mandates minimum recycled-content ratios in plastic packaging and compliance with extended producer responsibility (EPR) recycling and treatment requirements.
The Ministry of Finance shall issue, within its authority, or submit for promulgation, environmental protection tax and fee brackets targeting plastic packaging, non-biodegradable bags, and single-use plastics, alongside incentives and preferential mechanisms to develop alternatives to single-use plastics and 100% biodegradable materials.