The Malawi Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) wishes to remind the general public, traders, manufacturers, and distributors that the production, importation, distribution, sale, and use of plastics (bags or sheets) less than 60 micrometres in thickness (thin plastics) and all plastics with no name, registration of manufacturer, or symbol indicating that it is recyclable remains illegal in Malawi under the Environment Management (Plastics) Regulations, 2015.

MEPA is currently conducting compliance and enforcement inspections in markets and trading areas nationwide. During these operations, all banned thin plastics found in possession, storage, or trade will be confiscated, and appropriate enforcement action will be taken against offenders in accordance with the law.

All traders, retailers, and consumers are urged to immediately stop using banned thin plastics and switch to environmentally friendly alternatives such as reusable bags, cloth bags, woven sacks, and paper packaging. The public is also encouraged to support enforcement efforts by refusing banned plastics and reporting illegal activities to MEPA through the toll-free line 5153.

Non-compliance with the Plastics Regulations is an offence punishable by law and shall result in confiscation of plastics and related equipment, fines, closure of business premises, or prosecution.

MEPA remains committed to protecting Malawi’s environment and promoting a clean, safe, and healthy nation.