(Stock Photo)
Importers are reminded that the ban on the importation of single-use plastics took effect today, Monday, April 1.
Products such as petro-based single-use plastic cups, cutlery, including plastic knives, forks and spoons; stirrers; straws; plates; egg trays (both plastic and Styrofoam), and Styrofoam containers used in the culinary retail industry can no longer be imported.
Importers who try to bring in these items after today’s deadline would be guilty of an offence, and would be liable on summary conviction to a fine of $50,000, a year in prison, or both.
Anyone who engages in the practice may be fined $1,000 for each day or part thereof, during which the offence continues.
This comes under the Control of Disposable Plastics Bill 2019, which was passed by both the House of Assembly and the Senate last week.