Minister Hambardzum Matevosyan presented, at the National Assembly in the second reading, draft law “On Making Amendment and Addendum” to the laws “On Trade and Services”, “On Administrative Offences”, and “On Market Surveillance”. 
The proposed legislative package proposes to prohibit, from 1 January 2027, the distribution and use of polyethylene bags and pouches, as well as single-use containers and tableware (including plates, cups, spoons, forks, knives, straws and stir sticks) in trade outlets, public catering establishments, fairs, and other points of sale. Exceptions will apply to loose produce bags and some special-purpose containers.

The proposed regulations are aimed at protecting public health and reducing environmental risks. The widespread use of plastic contributes to harmful emissions, waste accumulation, and environmental pollution. The introduction of these restrictions is expected to mitigate such impacts, prevent landfill overcapacity, and improve overall quality of life.
At the same time, the initiative represents an important step in advancing Armenia’s sustainable development agenda, helping to balance economic interests with environmental protection.
The implementation of these measures, ahead of COP17, once again underscores Armenia’s commitment to acting as a responsible state guided by the principles of environmental protection and sustainable development.