Indonesia is set to tighten its waste management rules by making plastic recycling mandatory for producers using plastic packaging under a strengthened Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework. The move marks a shift from the country’s previous voluntary scheme, with authorities aiming to hold businesses accountable for the environmental impact of their packaging.
Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq confirmed that regulations requiring producers to take responsibility for plastic waste could be issued this year, with gradual implementation planned through to 2029. The measure is part of Indonesia’s 2025–2029 National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN), which targets 100% waste management by the end of the period.
“We are strict about reusing and recycling,” Nurofiq said, stressing that no exceptions would be made for plastic. “The President has requested completion by 2029, and we are currently drafting the foundation.” He noted that single-use plastics remain especially problematic, as they are hard to decompose and contribute to persistent microplastic pollution.
