Bali set to ban small plastic packaging production by 2026

INDONESIA – Bali, Indonesia, is taking bold steps to combat plastic pollution, with the provincial government announcing a ban on the production of small plastic packaging, commonly known as sachets, starting in 2026. 

The move follows an earlier prohibition on single-use plastic water bottles under one litre, reflecting the island’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

“I fully support this initiative. Studies have been conducted on small-size sachets, and the ban will likely be finalized this year or in 2026,” said Bali Vice-Governor I Nyoman Giri Prasta in a statement. 

He emphasized that the administration is currently prioritizing the bottled water ban but is open to expanding restrictions to other plastic packaging types in the future.

The initiative aligns with the Clean Bali Movement, outlined in Bali Gubernatorial Circular No. 9/2025, which aims to reduce the island’s environmental footprint. 

According to the National Waste Management Information System, Bali generated approximately 1.2 million tonnes of plastic waste in 2024, highlighting the urgency of these measures. 

The Nusantara River Research Agency (BRUIN) has endorsed the ban, urging authorities to extend it to all forms of plastic packaging. 

“Existing waste management laws emphasize producer responsibility. This ban must be comprehensive to be effective,” stated Muhammad Kholif Basyaiban, BRUIN’s waste census coordinator.

However, the policy has sparked concerns among local businesses. 

I Gde Wiradhitya Samuhata, president director of CV Tirta Taman Bali, highlighted the need for dialogue, saying, “Environmental policies are crucial, but they must involve collaboration to protect local businesses.” 

His company plans to submit a formal response to the Indonesian Bottled Water Association, advocating for balanced waste management solutions. 

Similarly, Nyoman Arta Widyana, president director of PT Tirta Mumbul Jaya Abadi, argued, 

“The focus shouldn’t solely be on bottled water producers. All plastic packaging, like those for food and household goods, contributes to waste.”

Meanwhile, the provincial government has announced plans to pilot biodegradable packaging trials in partnership with local startups, aiming to replace plastic sachets with eco-friendly alternatives by 2027. 

This initiative, supported by international environmental NGOs, could set a global precedent for sustainable packaging.

Bali’s efforts are driven by the need to preserve its natural beauty and tourism-driven economy. With landfills nearing capacity and plastic waste plaguing beaches, the ban reflects a visionary approach to ensuring a cleaner, greener future for the island.

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