The Council of Ministers decided on the ban at its meeting in December and it has agreed to several first steps in the management of marine litter.
Starting 31 January, 2018, there will be a ban on the importation of single-use non-biodegradable plastic bags and polystyrene takeaway boxes.
Local manufacturers of plastic bags can only use biodegradable plastics beginning on 31 January, 2018.
The government will also review and provide a new method for disposal of plastic bottle waste beginning on 31 January, 2018.
