Northern Cyprus says goodbye to thin plastic bags: the era of reusable bags

Starting January 1, 2026, light plastic bags will be completely banned in Northern Cyprus: all shopping bags with a thickness of 15 to 50 microns will be prohibited, and it will no longer be possible to sell or provide them for free. The decision is part of the fight against microplastics, which, according to authorities, have already reached critical levels both in the country and worldwide.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Environment Fikri Ataoğlu announced that legislative changes and an action plan have been prepared to transition from single-use plastics to reusable bags and other sustainable solutions.

Campaigns are already underway in six districts of the republic: people are being informed about the dangers of microplastics and given cloth bags. These campaigns will continue until the ban comes into effect. Authorities urge residents to gradually stop using single-use bags and make reusable totes and shopping bags a habitual part of daily life—for the sake of protecting ecosystems and a cleaner environment for future generations.