Plastic bag charge redraws retail profits, raises policy issues By Bandula Sirimanna View(s): View(s):The charge for plastic shopping bags at major supermarkets, introduced as an environmental measure, is prompting growing public scrutiny over who ultimately benefits from the policy. 2456/41, to end the free distribution of plastic shopping bags and instead charge Rs. Retail analysts in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) trade note that while the environmental objective is clear, the commercial outcome has been more visible. The notification, enforced by the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) in coordination with the Central Environmental Authority (CEA), does not impose a tax or a ban on plastic bags. Retail analysts say elevated volumes throughout December and into early January are likely to push bag-charge collections to seasonal highs, further increasing gross inflows during the period of peak consumer spending.

Source: Sunday Times December 28, 2025 11:35 UTC