The government has submitted legislation proposing a comprehensive ban on waste imports, along with concessions on the current plastic bag charges. The proposed changes to the Waste Management Act, sponsored by Ungoofaaru MP Ibrahim Shifaz, were introduced in Parliament on Tuesday morning.

According to the government, the amendments aim to enforce a complete ban on importing waste into the country, revise regulations on managing specific types of waste to ensure the sustainability of the entire waste system, and address challenges faced in implementing the existing law.

One significant change proposed is to eliminate the MVR 2 fee on bundles of more than 50 plastic bags. Currently, retailers who buy plastic bags wholesale are required to pay MVR 2 per bag to the government, and individual shoppers also pay this fee. The amendment suggests removing this charge for wholesale purchases.

The government estimates that this concession will lead to a reduction in state revenue. Data indicates that the plastic bag fee generated MVR 2.01 million this year so far, and a total of MVR 5.9 million last year.

Another major amendment pertains to waste imports. Currently, waste can be imported with a specific permit issued by the Ministry, but the proposed law seeks to impose a blanket ban on all waste imports.