President of Kyrgyzstan Sadyr Japarov spoke about large-scale environmental measures during a meeting with residents of the Ton and Jeti-Oguz districts of the Issyk-Kul region. Previously, a pilot restriction regime had already been in place in the region.
Issyk-Kul Region Experience
In the Issyk-Kul region, a ban on the sale of polyethylene bags was introduced in 2023. Local entrepreneurs began adapting to the new conditions by switching to alternative packaging options.
"We started production recently, about two months ago. We produce paper bags. The focus was on the Issyk-Kul region. We have conducted awareness campaigns and are visiting all stores. But if there is no strict control from the state, then..."
The entrepreneur noted that despite compliance with the ban in the early years, some retail outlets have recently returned to using cellophane bags.
New Restrictions
According to state plans, the restrictive measures will become nationwide starting from the beginning of 2027. This will affect all stages of plastic product turnover.
The President expressed readiness to support environmental projects and suggested discussing the development of alternative packaging production during a personal reception.
