The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has introduced fines of up to MVR 10,000 for repeat offences under a new regulation banning single-use plastics in the Maldives.
The Regulation on Banning Single Use Plastic, gazetted on Tuesday, establishes penalties for violations linked to the production, import and sale of prohibited plastic items, alongside broader measures to reduce plastic consumption.
The framework, issued under the Waste Management Act (Law No. 24/2022), empowers authorities to take enforcement action against non-compliant businesses and individuals, with implementation led by the ministry, the environmental regulatory authority and the Maldives Customs Service.
Under the regulation, first-time offenders will receive advisory warnings. Repeat violations may result in fines of up to MVR 150 per item, with total penalties capped at MVR 10,000.
The regulation also sets out controls on how single-use plastic bags are manufactured, imported and distributed, with inspection powers granted to designated authorities across production and retail channels.
Certain exemptions apply, including single-use plastics used by international airlines and items imported for sale in duty-free outlets for departing passengers.
The regulation will come into force three months after its publication in the Government Gazette, allowing a transition period for stakeholders to adjust to the new requirements.
