Macao Officially Bans Three Types of Single-Use Plastic Products
On August 25, the Macao SAR Gazette published a Chief Executive's Order prohibiting the import of disposable plastic cotton swabs (except for swabs used for sampling), balloon sticks, and inflatable sticks, effective January 1, 2026.
The Macao Environmental Protection Bureau stated that before formulating these regulatory measures, the SAR government conducted a comprehensive analysis of Macao's actual situation, the availability of alternatives, and the experiences of neighboring regions. It also engaged in discussions and solicited feedback from relevant industries, hoping to better safeguard Macao's environmental quality through a series of plastic restriction measures. The Macao SAR government is gradually implementing these plastic restriction measures.
Effective January 1, 2020, the import and transshipment of disposable foam tableware (including lunch boxes, bowls, cups, and plates) will be prohibited. Effective January 1, 2022, the import and transshipment of disposable straws and drink stirrers made of non-degradable plastic will also be prohibited. From January 1, 2023, the import of non-degradable disposable plastic knives, forks and spoons will be banned; from January 1, 2024, the import of disposable non-degradable plastic plates, cups and disposable foam food trays will be banned.
