Oman’s Environment Authority (EA) said that the ministerial decision 23/2021 stipulating the ban on single-use plastic shopping bags will be implemented from Friday (January 1, 2021), according to a media report.

“The authority will implement the decision to ban as part of the plan set by the authority to preserve the Omani environment from pollution and waste that is harmful to the rich environment and wildlife,” Ahmed bin Zahir al Hinai, Director General of Environmental Affairs, was quoted as saying in the Oman Observer report.

The report said that an administrative fine of not less than RO100 ($259) and no more than RO2,000 is imposed on whoever violates the provisions of this decision, and it will be doubled if the violation is repeated.