Hanoi to ban plastic items in 2026
The ban aims to reduce plastic waste and improve the environment.
THE HANOI TIMES — Starting January 1, 2026, hotels and tourism sites in Hanoi may no longer use plastic bags and other non-biodegradable products.
A plastic landfill in Vietnam's northern province of Lao Cai. Photo: VNA
The measure is part of a new policy presented by the Hanoi People’s Committee to the municipal People’s Council to prohibit the use of plastic bags and other non-biodegradable products to improve environmental protection in the city.
It defines non-biodegradable products as single-use plastic items, including toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, body wash bottles, shampoo containers, razors, and shower caps.
Beginning January 1, 2027, local markets and convenience stores will be barred from using non-biodegradable plastic bags. A year later, from January 1, 2028, these businesses will also be prohibited from distributing any single-use plastic products or non-biodegradable packaging, including foam boxes and plastic wrappers.
From the same date, government agencies, organizations, and individuals will be encouraged to stop using non-degradable containers, particularly foam boxes and plastic bags, for storing or transporting food.
The city authorities have called on government agencies to enhance communication about the measure. Local producers, businesses, and investors are advised to adopt the circular economy model in their operations.
The production of biodegradable packages and bags is encouraged for all container producers in the city.
The proposed policy is scheduled for review at the Hanoi People’s Council meeting from July 8–11.
According to the Hanoi People’s Committee, Vietnam produces around 1.8 million tons of plastic waste annually, but only 15% is recycled. In Hanoi, plastic waste exceeds 1,420 tons per day, with single-use plastic accounting for 60%. However, only about 40% is collected and recycled, mostly by household-based operations.
