Oman Announces 4th Phase of Single-Use Plastic Bag Ban
The Environment Authority (EA) of the Sultanate of Oman is significantly stepping up its environmental regulations, with the phased implementation of a nationwide ban on single-use plastic shopping bags.
The initiative’s fourth phase, effective 1 January 2026, is part of the Ministerial Decision No. 8/2024 aimed at minimising plastic pollution and encouraging sustainable practices across various industries. This comprehensive effort targets a total ban across all sectors by 2027, aligning with the sustainability goals of Oman Vision 2040.
The upcoming phase will broaden the ban to include a diverse range of commercial sectors. These encompass date vendors, sellers of drinking water and water pumps, automotive pump sales and repair shops, modern irrigation system retailers, and stores for plants and agricultural supplies. Also affected are pet shops selling birds, fish, and related food items; construction and building material outlets; and sellers of animal feed, grains, pesticides, and agricultural chemicals. Additionally, vendors of ice cream, corn, sweets, and nuts; along with juice shops and traditional food stalls; honey sellers; and mills, will fall under the new regulations.
It specifically prohibits companies, establishments, and individuals from using single-use plastic shopping bags that are less than 50mm thick. Violators face administrative fines ranging from 50 to 1,000 Omani rials, with penalties doubled for repeat offenders.
The EA emphasised that this step reflects Oman’s commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible consumption. Businesses operating within these affected sectors are encouraged to proactively transition to eco-friendly alternatives before the specified deadline.
