"I would like to remind all parties that there will be no more imports of plastic waste from next year. We have had enough, as this country continues to struggle with managing its significant volume of such waste," he explained.
During a visit to the Jakarta Recycle Center in South Jakarta on Wednesday, he affirmed that his ministry will ensure the effective implementation of the prohibition by establishing a surveillance system and participating in law enforcement efforts.
"We will be directly involved in enforcing the relevant regulations against violators. Our plan is to utilize existing laws against those who break the rules," he added.
The minister specified that the import ban will apply to all types of plastic waste, including sorted waste.
He also urged all importers to actively contribute to solving Indonesia's plastic waste problem from the upstream sector, rather than prioritizing profits through the shipment of waste to the country, which he deemed imprudent.
Collaboration is essential to ensure an adequate supply of plastic and paper for various industries as raw materials, he noted.
According to data from the National Waste Management Information System (SIPSN), in 2023, approximately 38.25 percent of Indonesia's 38.2 million tons of waste remained unmanaged. Food waste comprised the largest portion at 39.65 percent, followed by plastic waste, which accounted for 19.21 percent of the total volume.
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Translator: Prisca T, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Tia Mutiasari
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