Smaller
BiggerBusinesses continue free plastic bag distribution despite law deadline
Santo Domingo.– Despite the expiration of the deadline under the Law on Comprehensive Management and Co-processing of Solid Waste (Law No. 225-20) on October 2, 2025, many businesses in the Dominican Republic continue to distribute plastic bags for free, violating the regulation. The law also prohibits the use of expanded polystyrene (foam) containers for food and beverages and required companies to adopt sustainable alternatives within five years — a goal still unmet by most supermarkets, grocery stores, and retail shops.
Article 172 mandates a transition to reusable or biodegradable bags, aiming to reduce environmental pollution, encourage responsible consumption, and promote circular economy practices in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Producers must join extended responsibility programs and use oxodegradable or biodegradable materials, while businesses may only provide recyclable, eco-efficient bags with environmental awareness messaging. The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources will conduct annual evaluations to monitor compliance.
Lawmakers debated extending the deadline for another five years to give small and medium-sized businesses more time to adapt. However, President Luis Abinader rejected the proposal, siding with industrial and environmental groups advocating strict enforcement. The Senate announced plans to review a modified proposal, but progress has stalled. Environmental organizations continue to call for immediate sanctions and stronger policies to curb single-use plastics and ensure compliance with the law.
I just bought a pillow 10 min ago at a chino tienda, wrapped and sealed in plastic. They put it, my only item, in a giant plastic bag 🙃. Its a cultural thing here. Its hard to stop them.