TIRANA, October 26 /ATSH/ – Hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets face incoming restrictions on mini shampoo bottles, single-use food containers, and produce packaging.
New restrictions will target small hotel shampoo bottles, restaurant food containers and supermarket fruit and vegetable packaging.
The Ministry of Environment has drafted a decision proposing changes to the use of single-use packaging, with measures taking effect beginning from February 12, 2028, and continuing through 2030.
According to the draft decision, starting February 12, 2028, food service businesses—excluding micro-enterprises—will be required to offer reusable packaging alternatives as part of a reuse system.
A year later, from February 12, 2029, customers will be permitted to use their own cups for coffee and other beverages. Establishments will be required to accept these, provided they meet hygiene standards, and may not charge higher prices for doing so. According to the draft decision, most of the restrictions are set to take effect on January 1, 2030. The measures will affect bars and restaurants, aiming to reduce the use of single-use plastic cups, plates, trays, and containers for food and drinks consumed on their premises, including outdoor areas.
The draft decision states that, “The rules will also extend to small-portion plastic packaging for sugar, sauces, condiments and coffee creamer, while providing for exceptions in certain cases, such as those involving specific hygiene or medical requirements.”
In the hospitality sector, the restrictions will cover single-use packaging for personal care products—such as shampoos, lotions and soaps—intended for a single stay.
The draft decision aims to align Albanian legislation with European Union regulations regarding packaging and packaging waste. /e.i/j.p/r.e/p.s./
