27 February 2026
The Report on the Use of Plastic Bags in Kosovo identifies among its key findings that the measures to reduce plastic bag use, under Administrative Instruction No. 07/2023, have encouraged noticeable changes in consumer behavior and the market within a relatively short period of implementation. The introduction of a €0.05 fee for each lightweight plastic bag has significantly influenced consumer behavior and established a new environmental norm within formal retail chains.
The results of the assessment, based on data collected from retailers, show a significant reduction in the use of distributed plastic bags, while estimates indicate that average annual consumption in 2024 was approximately 55 plastic bags per person. This is lower than the EU average of 66.6 bags per person and significantly lower than the target established by Administrative Instruction No. 07/2023 for 2024, which was 180 plastic bags per person.
The purpose of this assessment was to analyze the progress made since the entry into force of Administrative Instruction No. 07/2023, focusing on compliance among different categories of retailers, institutional coordination, consumer behavior, and the policy’s contribution to reducing the generation of plastic waste.
The assessment was also prepared based on an initial review of relevant legal, policy, and monitoring documents, as well as preliminary consultations with key institutional actors and other stakeholders. The report provides a structured plan for data collection and analysis, combining quantitative evidence (institutional records, surveys, and retailer data) with qualitative insights from field visits, interviews, and focus group discussions.
The importance of this assessment also lies in the fact that it will provide a comprehensive, evidence-based analysis to inform future policy-making, strengthen enforcement mechanisms, and support Kosovo’s progress towards a circular economy and environmental standards aligned with those of the EU.
The implementation of this assessment was supported by GIZ and reflects discussions held during 2024 between GIZ, MESP, stakeholders, and the engaged consultancy.
For more details, see the report “Use of Plastic Bags in Kosovo 2024.”