China News network September 29, according to Japan's Kyodo News agency reported that as a part of reducing plastic waste, the Japanese government plans to charge for plastic bags in April 2020, but the Japanese retail industry on the grounds of insufficient time, strongly appealed to delay the start of the provisions. In addition, the price setting of plastic bags and alternative materials may also become the focus.

It is reported that the government plan presented by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Environment at the review meeting on the 26th will, in principle, include all retail stores.

According to the plan, Japan will charge for portable plastic bags used to take away purchased goods, but will allow free distribution of thin-film rolled bags for fresh food. Plastic bags made from plant-derived bioplastics and biodegradable plastics that can be broken down by microorganisms will not be included in the charge.

Japan's ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry called for "implementation with a sense of urgency to prepare for the Tokyo Olympics, which will be crowded with foreign tourists," but the franchise association representing Japan's retail industry expressed difficulty at the review meeting, saying that the time is too short, and other retail groups have also asked for a revision of the implementation time.

On the other hand, the Japanese government believes it is appropriate for the price of plastic bags to be determined by the merchants. Consumer groups have called for an amount conducive to the reduction of plastic bags, saying, If the price is low, customers will think it is OK to buy them. Another committee member said, The minimum price should be set.

On the different charges based on the raw materials of plastic bags, there were also objections, saying, Consumers cannot judge the raw materials of plastic bags at a glance. There should be no exception so as not to create confusion."

Plastic Industry Video