Government to buy plastic bag stocks after tax complaints

The government said today that it will buy from businesses stocks of plastic carrier bags which do not conform to the new legal provisions on the eco-contribution.

The government had originally given a two-month transition period to enable the importers/retailers to dispose of their stocks but there had been calls for a longer transition.

The Resources Ministry said the new provisions - including a VAT charge of 18c per carrier bag - were required to discourage the use of plastic bags which were harmful to the environment and public health.

The ministry said that after talks with the GRTU, it had decided to buy all stocks held by operators as long as such stocks has been bought according to law. The stocks will be bought at the original price, including related eco-contributions.

Operators can register their stocks at the GRTU between this Monday and Thursday.

The new regulations come into force on May 1, and all carrier bags, even those whose handles are cut off, have to carry a charge of 18c.

People may report irregularities on freephone 80074404.