July 1 Deadline: India Mandates Barcodes on Plastic Packaging

Single-Use Plastic Carry Bags Banned in India

Commencing 1 July 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.

Recently issued by the Ministry of Environment, a key regulatory body, its mandate is to enhance transparency and accountability in the production and distribution of plastic materials. By enforcing these regulations, the government aims to effectively monitor plastic usage, specifically prohibiting bags that measure less than 120 microns in thickness, which were 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 1 July 2022.

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

The regulations stipulate stringent penalties for those who fail to comply 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 ₹ 1 lakh, 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 commitment to upholding environmental standards and reducing plastic pollution in India.