18.12.2025 13:30
The Packaging Commission within the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change discussed the bag fee for the year 2026. It was claimed that representatives from supermarkets requested an increase in the bag fee from 50 kuruş to 2.5 lira, citing rising costs as the reason.
Within the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, the Packaging Commission discussed the fee for paid bags that will be valid in 2026 as part of the "Zero Waste" initiative. It was claimed that representatives of chain markets requested an increase in the bag fee, which is currently 50 kuruş, to 2.5 lira.
In the cost calculations shared during the meeting, it was stated that the unit cost of standard plastic bags for markets varies between 50 and 75 kuruş depending on size and weight. Therefore, it was noted that in some cases, bags are offered to consumers at or below their cost in the current application.
IT MEANS A 400% INCREASE
After the meeting, it was alleged that market representatives submitted an official letter to the Ministry requesting a tariff of 2.5 lira, citing rising costs and operational expenses as justification. This request represents an increase of approximately 400% compared to the current price.
MINISTRY SOURCES DID NOT FIND THE FEE REASONABLE
In response, Ministry sources stated that the 2.5 lira fee was not considered reasonable due to the fight against inflation and the purchasing power of citizens. It is being discussed in the corridors that the bag fee may be updated with a more limited increase in line with the revaluation rate from the current level of 50 kuruş.