Kyrgyzstan revises single-use plastic restrictions to align with EAEU standards

KYRGYZSTAN – Kyrgyzstan has revised its legislation to ease restrictions on single-use plastics, balancing environmental goals with regional trade obligations. 

The updated law, signed by President Sadyr Japarov, amends the “On Limiting the Circulation of Polymer Film Bags and Plastic Items in the Territory of the Kyrgyz Republic” legislation, originally passed on June 17, 2025, and set to take effect on January 1, 2027.

According to the revised policy, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and disposable plastic food packaging have been removed from the list of banned items. 

The original law prohibited a broad range of single-use plastics, including polymer film bags, all disposable plastic tableware, egg cartons, and coffee capsules. 

The updated restrictions now apply only to non-recyclable disposable plastic tableware, allowing recyclable alternatives to remain in circulation. 

“This adjustment ensures our environmental policies align with the Eurasian Economic Union’s regulations while supporting local businesses,” President Japarov said in a statement.

The decision follows concerns raised by domestic and regional businesses about the economic impact of the initial bans. 

Industry leaders argued that prohibiting PET bottles and food packaging could disrupt manufacturing and cross-border trade within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which includes Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia. 

“The original restrictions risked undermining our trade commitments and local production capabilities,” said Aibek Kadyrov, a representative of Kyrgyzstan’s business community. 

The amendments aim to harmonize national policies with EAEU standards, ensuring smoother trade relations.

Despite the relaxed national regulations, Kyrgyzstan continues to prioritize environmental protection at the local level. 

A report by local authorities highlights ongoing efforts, such as the ban on plastic bags in the Issyk-Kul resort and recreational areas, implemented in March 2025. 

This measure protects the lake’s fragile ecosystem, a key tourism asset. 

“We remain committed to reducing plastic pollution while balancing economic needs,” said Environment Minister Dinara Kutmanova.

Recent developments indicate Kyrgyzstan is not alone in refining its approach to plastic waste. 

A July 2025 update from the EAEU suggests member states are exploring unified recycling standards to bolster circular economy practices, potentially influencing Kyrgyzstan’s future policies. 

These standards could encourage investment in recycling infrastructure, addressing the country’s reported 150 million PET bottles used annually.

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