Georgia bans sale of single-use plastic items from 1 April

The government of Georgia has introduced a ban on the sale of several single-use plastic products, effective from 1 April 2026, as part of efforts to reduce plastic consumption.

Under the new regulations, the sale of plastic cutlery, plates, straws, stirrers and similar items is prohibited. The ban also covers food containers, cups and lids made from expanded polystyrene (EPS).

Authorities noted that the import and production of these items had already been banned earlier, from 1 January 2026.

Additional restrictions have also come into force from April, targeting public sector procurement. State institutions are now prohibited from purchasing plastic cups, containers and beverages sold in plastic bottles of up to three litres. 

Oversight of the new rules will be carried out by the National Food Agency of Georgia, the Environmental Supervision Department and the Revenue Service of Georgia, within their respective mandates.

Violations will result in fines under administrative law. Offenders face a penalty of 1,000 lari and confiscation of the relevant products, while repeat violations carry a fine of 2,000 lari alongside confiscation.

The regulations do not apply to plastic products intended for export. Manufacturers producing goods for export are required to notify the Environmental Supervision Department in writing at least one month in advance, providing details on production timelines, quantities, destination countries and export schedules, according to the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia.