New regulation aimed at reducing single-use plastics with fines up to MVR 100,000

A new regulation aimed at reducing the use of single-use plastics in the Maldives has been introduced, extending restrictions beyond the plastic items already banned under a presidential decree.

The regulation provides for penalties of up to MVR 100,000 for violations. Formulated under Article 31 of the Waste Management Act, the regulation seeks to reduce plastic consumption nationwide while establishing a clear legal framework for enforcement. Responsibility for implementing the measures has been vested with the Environment Ministry, Environment Regulatory Authority (ERA), and Maldives Customs Service.

The Ministry is required to publish a comprehensive “Phase-out Plan” in the Government Gazette within 12 months after the regulation takes effect. The plan is intended to facilitate a substantial reduction in plastic use by 2030 and will be developed through consultations with relevant stakeholders, alongside assessments of the anticipated environmental and economic impacts.

The Phase-out Plan must outline the justification for prohibiting specific plastic products, identify environmentally sustainable alternatives, establish a public awareness campaign regarding implementation timelines, and specify any exemptions that may apply.

The regulation provides exemptions for certain categories of products, including items imported as “ship stores” by international airlines and goods used in duty-free outlets serving passengers departing the Maldives.

Additionally, the regulation sets out detailed technical standards for determining whether plastic bags fall within the prohibited category, based on their length, width, and thickness:

• Thickness: Calculated by taking the average measurement from four separate points on the bag, excluding corners and handles.
• Length: Measured without including the handles
• Width: Determined after folding the sides of the bag
• Measurement Tools: The thickness of plastic bags must be measured in microns using specialized measuring equipment

The relevant authorities are authorized to carry out inspections to verify compliance with the regulation. While first-time offenders may receive a warning, repeat or subsequent violations will be subject to a fine of MVR 150 per item. Total penalties, however, are capped at a maximum of MVR 100,000.