Armenia is moving to eliminate single-use plastics nationwide, approving a sweeping ban on the sale, distribution, and use of polyethylene bags and disposable containers that will take effect on January 1, 2027. The decision marks one of the country’s most significant environmental reforms in recent years.
The Armenian government has approved a legislative package that will prohibit the sale, distribution, and use of polyethylene bags and single-use plastic containers beginning January 1, 2027. Environment Minister Hambardzum Matevosyan presented the initiative during Thursday’s Cabinet meeting, Armenpress reported. The proposal stems from the government’s 2021 to 2026 program, which identifies the gradual elimination of single-use polyethylene as a key environmental priority.
Under the proposal, the sale, distribution, and presence of polyethylene bags and sacks will be banned across retail outlets, food service establishments, mobile vendors, and fairs. The ban will apply regardless of thickness, including products thicker than 50 microns, which are already restricted under Armenia’s existing rules. Exceptions will be made only for waste-collection bags produced from recycled materials and packaging used for weighing fruits and vegetables. Armenia previously banned polyethylene bags up to 50 microns thick in 2022, giving businesses about two years to shift toward environmentally friendly alternatives.
The legislation also prohibits the sale and use of single-use plastic and polystyrene foam containers and tableware in the same locations. This includes plates, cups, spoons, forks, knives, and drinking or stirring straws. Lidded containers used exclusively for weighing food items will remain permitted. Approved alternatives include reusable bags made of paper or fabric and disposable containers made of paper, wood, or foil.
Violations will carry administrative penalties. The first offense will result in a warning, followed by fines of 100,000 to 150,000 drams for repeated infringements. This is an increase from the current range of 30,000 to 100,000 drams. Monitoring will be carried out by the Market Surveillance Inspectorate and local self-government bodies.
Matevosyan said the restrictions hold environmental, economic, political, and public health significance. He noted the role single-use plastics play in pollution and microplastic accumulation, which threaten biodiversity and human health. He also said the measure positions Armenia as a responsible country focused on sustainability ahead of the upcoming COP 17 international conference scheduled to take place in Armenia.
Prime Minister Pashinyan stressed the need for active public awareness efforts and close cooperation with businesses to ensure smooth implementation. He emphasized the importance of developing a clear roadmap before the 2027 deadline.
The bill will now be forwarded to the Parliament for parliamentary debate and final approval.
