On July 5, 25 members of Tunisia's Assembly of the Representatives of the People introduced a legislative proposal aimed at imposing a comprehensive ban on single-use plastic bags and mandating a market transition toward sustainable, eco-friendly alternatives.
According to the Tunis Afrique Presse (TAP) agency, the bill comprises 23 articles organized into seven chapters. The document seeks to combat plastic pollution, protect public health, and support Tunisia's transition to a circular economy.
Under the proposal, once the law takes effect, retail outlets will be prohibited from distributing single-use plastic bags, whether for free or for a fee. Manufacturers and suppliers will be required to cease the production, importation, and distribution of such products within 12 months of the law's publication in the *Official Gazette of the Republic of Tunisia*. The bill also sets deadlines for banning plastic packaging for bulk goods and food products.
The bill establishes strict technical standards for permitted alternatives: only reusable bags-defined as having a minimum thickness of 50 microns, the capacity to hold 10 kilograms, and a design allowing for at least 20 uses-and biodegradable bags will be allowed. The latter must decompose by 90% within six months under industrial conditions or 12 months under home composting conditions, without leaving behind microplastic residues.
The lawmakers also proposed a national industrial support program to assist businesses in converting their production lines to eco-friendly products through preferential loans and tax incentives.
Furthermore, the bill enshrines the principle of "Extended Producer Responsibility," requiring companies to bear economic and environmental responsibility for their products throughout their entire lifecycle, including waste disposal. The document stipulates severe penalties for violators, including fines and the confiscation of illegal products. Fines will be doubled for repeat offenders, and penalties may extend to the closure of the business. Illegal production or importation of banned bags could result in prison sentences ranging from six months to two years.
