Question

Concerning Panama’s ban on polyethylene shopping bags that recently became effective, is the legislation enforced at the store or customs level? Also, what type of bags are included in the ban?

Answer

Panama Decree Law 1, which was published in the Official Gazette on January 19, 2018, bans the use of polyethylene bags by grocery stores, pharmacies, and retailers, effective July 20, 2019. The ban applies to wholesale stores beginning in 2020. It has been reported that aseptic polyethylene bags and bags used to hold wet items or pre-prepared foods are exempted, if a substitute with less environmental impact is not available.