Efforts to curb plastic waste in the Maldives are showing measurable success, with the country witnessing a 27.4 per cent decrease in plastic bag fee revenue in 2024, according to the latest figures released by the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA). This decline points to a reduction in single-use plastic bag consumption, aligning with the Government’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism.
Introduced under the Waste Management Act, the Plastic Bag Charge was officially implemented on 18 April 2023. The regulation mandates a fee of MVR 2 on each plastic bag sold by GST-registered businesses at the point of sale. The policy is part of a wider national initiative to promote sustainable waste management practices and reduce the environmental burden of imported plastic products, particularly in a fragile island ecosystem that relies heavily on marine health and eco-tourism.
MIRA’s 2024 Annual Report highlights that revenue generated from the plastic bag fee totaled MVR 9.19 million for the year. While this figure is only marginally below the initial revenue forecast of MVR 9.22 million, it marks a considerable year-on-year drop compared to the MVR 12.66 million collected in 2023. The 27.4 per cent reduction is widely seen as an encouraging indicator of behavioural change among consumers and retailers in favour of environmentally conscious alternatives.
Further reinforcing this trend, plastic bag fee collections specifically reported by GST-registered businesses fell by 28.8 per cent in 2024. Since revenue from the fee is directly tied to consumption levels, the drop provides tangible evidence that fewer plastic bags are being used and distributed within the country.
The Government of the Maldives has been steadily advancing initiatives to protect its natural environment, which remains central to its tourism appeal and economic resilience. The plastic bag fee is one of several measures aimed at minimising pollution and preserving marine ecosystems, with additional policies in place targeting single-use plastics, waste segregation, and recycling.
Environmental experts have lauded the implementation of such fiscal policies as practical tools to influence consumer habits. As a destination renowned for its pristine beaches and biodiverse coral reefs, reducing plastic waste is not only an ecological necessity but also a strategic priority for sustaining the Maldives’ image as a world-class eco-tourism destination.
Visitors to the Maldives are increasingly encouraged to participate in and support these national sustainability efforts, from using reusable bags and bottles to choosing resorts that adopt environmentally responsible practices. These collective efforts contribute to preserving the islands’ natural beauty for generations to come.
With continued monitoring and public awareness, the Maldives is setting a strong example in the region on how strategic environmental regulations can lead to meaningful outcomes, enhancing both environmental integrity and the tourism experience.
