MUSCAT: Oman has officially entered the third phase of its nationwide plastic shopping bag ban, marking a critical step in the country’s effort to reduce environmental pollution and promote sustainability. Effective from Tuesday, the new phase mandates stricter compliance across commercial sectors, pushing both consumers and retailers to seek eco-friendly alternatives. This initiative reflects Oman’s broader environmental goals outlined in Vision 2040 and aligns with international standards for reducing single-use plastics.
The Environment Authority has made it clear that non-compliance will result in financial penalties ranging from RO 50 to RO 1,000, depending on the severity and nature of the violation. Repeat offenders may face doubled fines, reinforcing the seriousness of the regulation. The fines target both manufacturers and vendors who continue to produce, distribute, or supply single-use plastic bags in defiance of the law. Inspectors have already begun monitoring establishments for adherence.
Retailers have been advised to begin offering biodegradable, reusable, or paper-based alternatives to customers. Many supermarkets and department stores have introduced cloth and jute bags, encouraging a shift in consumer habits. Educational campaigns have also been launched across the Sultanate to inform the public about the environmental hazards of plastic waste and the importance of making sustainable choices in daily life.
Oman’s transition away from plastic bags follows similar moves by other countries in the region, but the structured, phased approach gives businesses time to adapt while also making consumers more conscious. The success of this initiative depends on collective responsibility, with both government enforcement and public cooperation playing essential roles. Officials have emphasized that this is more than a regulatory issue—it’s a cultural shift towards environmental stewardship.
