VICTORIA, Seychelles — Minister for Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment Flavien Joubert has announced that a complete ban on plastic takeaway boxes will come into effect in Seychelles from June 2026, as part of a broader strategy to phase out single-use plastics across the country. The announcement was made in a message to mark World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5 under the theme ‘Ending plastic pollution’.
A one-year transition period will be provided to ensure that businesses and consumers can adapt smoothly. During this time, the ministry will work closely with businesses to support the shift toward affordable, sustainable alternatives, while also increasing public awareness about the environmental harms caused by plastic. Minister Joubert said the move is part of ongoing legislative reviews aimed at introducing new restrictions on the use, possession, and commercial distribution of plastics still in circulation.
Special focus will be placed on La Digue Island, in support of the government’s vision of transforming it into the eco-capital of the world. The goal is to make La Digue plastic-free, with the support of the Basel Convention, under which a project is being implemented to significantly reduce the use of single-use plastic bottles on the island. Minister Joubert also welcomed the arrival of the Plastic Odyssey vessel to Seychelles this week as a timely and symbolic event, noting that the project’s focus on locally adaptable plastic recycling solutions aligns closely with the country’s national goals.
