Addis Ababa, January 31, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia has officially enforced the nationwide ban on single-use plastic bags, the country’s Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) announced Saturday.
The ban takes effect following a six-month transition period, which ended today, during which businesses and individuals were expected to comply with the new regulations.
Rapid urbanization, population growth, economic expansion, and changing lifestyles have led to widespread use and improper disposal of single-use plastic bags, which often end up polluting the environment. Plastic products can persist in soil for over a century without decomposing, contaminating water bodies, harming biodiversity, undermining agricultural productivity, and posing significant risks to both human and environmental health.
Under the Solid Waste Management and Disposal Proclamation 1383/2017, the Ethiopian government has prohibited the production, import, storage, sale, and use of single-use plastic bags, Authority reminded.
It has been learned that the measure aims to safeguard citizens’ right to a clean and healthy environment and reduce exposure to diseases, including cancer, linked to environmental pollution.
The Authority warned that individuals found using or possessing banned plastic bags from today onward will face fines ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 Ethiopian birr.
The Authority also urged all citizens to comply with the law, take responsibility for protecting their communities, and contribute to reducing plastic pollution while avoiding legal penalties.