Oman expands single-use plastic bag ban to more retail sectors
Key takeaways
- Oman will implement the fifth phase of its single-use plastic shopping bag ban on July 1, 2026.
- The ban will extend restrictions to more retail sectors including furniture, jewelry, vehicle care, and car dealerships.
- The ban targets plastic shopping bags under 50 micrometers thick and forms part of Oman’s wider strategy to reduce plastic waste.
Oman will implement the fifth phase of its ban on single-use plastic shopping bags on July 1, 2026, as part of a broader effort to curb pollution and protect the country’s environment and wildlife.
The measure forms part of Oman’s ongoing plan to reduce waste from single-use plastics and safeguard natural ecosystems. Oman’s phased ban on single-use plastic shopping bags was introduced in 2024, targeting single-use plastic shopping bags less than 50 micrometers thick.
The Environment Authority has called on business owners and consumers to comply with the provisions of the decision and expand the use of sustainable alternatives.
“Phase five applies to furniture blankets and similar retail outlets, Khanjar, gold and silver shops, vehicle care centers, and vehicle dealerships. Accordingly, all concerned parties are required to comply with the provisions and requirements of the aforementioned decision in order to achieve its intended objectives and safeguard the public interest,” states the Environment Authority.
Eco-friendly alternatives
The Middle East is moving away from single-use plastic packaging through legislation, creating opportunities for alternative solutions. Earlier this year, Dubai, United Arab Emirates, entered the final phase of its single-use plastics ban, extending restrictions to items such as single-use plastic plates, cutlery, as well as beverage cups and lids.
Recently, Australian-based packaging solutions company Detpak introduced its Eco-Products range to the Middle East. The portfolio aimed to offer customers a broader choice of compostable, no-added PFAS sugarcane foodservice packaging.
Last year, TotalEnergies Corbion reached a strategic distribution agreement with Multi Trade Group, appointing the company as the main distribution partner for its compostable bioplastic Luminy PLA in the Middle East.
At ProPak Middle East and North Africa 2026, Necat Kirkil, regional representative at FSSC, told Packaging Insights that the region’s digital population is driving demand for premium, sustainable packaging shaped by global brands, social media, and e-commerce.
Recently, Temu, a direct-from-factory online marketplace, partnered with Asyad Express, part of Asyad Group, to enhance e-commerce packaging delivery service across Oman. The collaboration aimed to strengthen cross-border trade, attract global businesses, and contribute to the economic growth of Oman.
