The Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia has clarified that the ban on serving beverages in plastic bottles by food service establishments will take effect as scheduled on July 1, 2026, despite broader adjustments to long-term plastic regulations.
As of April 1, 2026, a wide range of single-use plastic products were banned from production (except for export), import and placement on the market. These include:
- Plastic cutlery (forks, knives, spoons, chopsticks)
- Plates, straws and drink stirrers
- Food containers, cups and lids made from expanded polystyrene (EPS).
The regulation also prohibits public institutions from procuring plastic cups, containers and beverages in plastic bottles under three liters.
Starting July 1, 2026, additional restrictions will directly affect restaurants, cafés and other food service operators. Businesses will be prohibited from:
- Serving ready-made food in single-use plastic containers or cups
- Providing beverages to customers in plastic bottles.
These measures reduce plastic waste generated by the hospitality sector.
Looking ahead, a broader ban on plastic beverage bottles will come into force on February 1, 2031. From that date, the production (except for export), import and sale of beverages in plastic bottles will be prohibited.
Exceptions will apply to:
- Water containers of three liters or more
- Other beverages in containers of 20 liters or more
The ministry states that the phased approach is designed to gradually reduce plastic consumption while allowing businesses time to adapt.
