From July 1, 2025, all plastic carry bags and multilayered packaging in India must show thickness and maker details in a barcode.

Single-Use Plastic Carry Bags banned in India

Commencing July 1, 2025, all plastic carry bags and multilayered packaging produced or imported in India must prominently display details such as their thickness and the manufacturer's name through a barcode or quick response (QR) code printed directly on the packaging. These regulations mark a significant step towards enhancing transparency and accountability in the plastic industry.

This mandate, recently issued by the Ministry of Environment, a key regulatory body, aims to enhance transparency and accountability in producing and distributing plastic materials. By enforcing these regulations, the government seeks to monitor the usage of plastic effectively carry bags that measure less than 120 microns in thickness, which have been banned under the comprehensive Plastic Waste Management Rules established in 2016.

These rules are a crucial legislative framework for promoting environmentally sustainable plastic waste management nationwide. In a significant move in 2021, the Ministry notified revised regulations that prohibited the use of certain single-use plastic items deemed to have minimal utility and contribute significantly to environmental litter. This prohibition came into effect on July 1, 2022.

Furthermore, the updated regulations also banned manufacturing, importing, storing, distributing, and utilising plastic carry bags with thicknesses below 120 microns. This regulation took effect on December 31, 2022, providing a clear timeline for compliance.

The regulations stipulate stringent penalties for those who fail to comply to ensure compliance with the new barcode requirement, as outlined in Section 15 of the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986. Violators may face severe consequences, including imprisonment for up to five years, fines of up to one lakh rupees, or both. In cases where non-compliance persists, the law allows for an additional fine of up to Rs 5,000 daily. The severity of these penalties underscores the government's determination to uphold environmental standards and reduce plastic pollution in India.