environment 13 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)

Uganda's New Plastic Levy: A Well-Intentioned Policy Facing Criticism

Uganda's Parliament has approved a $1,500 per tonne tax on plastics, a move aimed at tackling plastic pollution. However, critics argue that this policy, while addressing a real issue, might not be the most effective solution. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/finance/uganda-s-plastic-tax-the-right-problem-the-wrong-medicine-5457992

Uganda’s legislative body has recently enacted a significant levy of $1,500 per tonne on plastic production. This decision comes as a direct response to the growing environmental concerns surrounding plastic waste across the nation.

The intention behind this fiscal measure is to curb the proliferation of plastics and encourage more sustainable alternatives. Experts acknowledge that the problem of plastic pollution is indeed critical and requires urgent attention.

However, the specific application of this tax has drawn debate. Some stakeholders believe that while the goal is commendable, the chosen method may not be the most appropriate or effective way to achieve the desired environmental outcomes. Further analysis is needed to assess the potential long-term impacts and explore alternative or complementary strategies.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda) https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/finance/uganda-s-plastic-tax-the-right-problem-the-wrong-medicine-5457992