According to Deputy Minister of Environment and Agriculture Solomon Pavliashvili, the measure will take effect next year.
However, the ban will not cover all plastic packaging. Authorities will allow the sale of oil in plastic bottles and drinking water in containers larger than 10 liters. In addition, the restriction will not apply to products intended for export, BM.ge reports.
This step forms part of a broader campaign to reduce plastic use across the country. Starting January 1, Georgia will prohibit the production of single-use plastic products for the domestic market. Manufacturers will still be able to produce plastic tableware for export.
From April 1, state institutions will no longer be allowed to purchase plastic cups, containers, or bottles with a capacity of up to 3 liters. Later, from July 1, the government will extend the ban to hotels, restaurants, and cafes.