Vietnam drafts decree to ban thin plastic bags and foam boxes from 2031

Vietnam's draft decree implementing the Law on Environmental Protection proposes ending production and import of thin plastic bags under 30 microns, foam food boxes, plastic straws and cutlery, and other single-use plastics after 31 December 2030. Supermarkets, shopping centres, hotels and tourist sites would also have to stop giving out free plastic bags and single-use plastic items, forcing shoppers to bring their own bags or pay for packaging.

Why this mattersA ban of this scope would force packaging producers and retailers in Vietnam to shift sourcing toward paper, reusable or biodegradable alternatives within four years.

• Draft decree sets 31 December 2030 as the deadline to stop production and import of plastic bags thinner than 30 microns.
• The same deadline applies to plastic straws, cutlery and foam food containers, with an exemption for products certified under Vietnam's Eco-Label.
• Supermarkets, shopping centres, hotels and tourist sites must stop giving out free plastic bags, packaging and single-use plastic items.
• Exemptions apply to bags made for export or used for direct product packaging sold to market.
• Provincial authorities will manage plastic waste locally and enforce the ban on thin bags under 30 microns.
• The Ministry of Finance is to set environmental taxes and fees on plastic packaging and single-use plastics, alongside incentives for biodegradable material production.

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