EPA to Enforce Styrofoam Ban with Fines, Seizures and Import Restrictions

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) says it is developing a robust legal and regulatory framework to enforce the nationwide ban on Styrofoam food containers, popularly known as takeaway packs, with offenders expected to face fines, product seizures and import restrictions.

Speaking in an interview on Friday, June 26, Acting Director for Sustainability and Circular Economy at the EPA, Larry Kotoe, said the Authority is putting in place the necessary enforcement mechanisms to ensure the ban is effectively implemented from the country’s entry points.

According to him, the regulations currently being drafted will empower authorities to confiscate banned products, impose fines on offenders and strengthen controls at Ghana’s ports to prevent the importation of Styrofoam products.

Mr. Kotoe explained that although the legal framework is still being finalised, it will clearly define enforcement powers and penalties for businesses that fail to comply with the ban.

He said the EPA is working closely with the Integrated Customs Operations Management System (ICUMS), formerly known as ICOPS, to monitor and regulate the importation of chemicals and products associated with polystyrene manufacturing.

The Authority is also applying Harmonised System (HS) codes to identify and block both finished Styrofoam products and the raw materials used in their production, allowing customs officials to tighten import controls at the ports.

According to Mr. Kotoe, the strategy is intended not only to stop the importation of finished takeaway packs but also to prevent the entry of raw materials used by local manufacturers, ensuring the ban is fully effective.

He disclosed that import restrictions could begin between September and December this year, ahead of the full enforcement of the nationwide ban in January 2027.

The EPA has also begun engaging importers and businesses to gather information on import cycles to facilitate a smooth transition before the regulations take effect.

“We are currently putting together the legal framework to back the policy direction. So definitely by December we should have the regulation clearly specifying the penalties and then also some of the enforcement powers that will come with it. Obviously you may have to confiscate and there will be fines as well,” Mr. Kotoe said.

He stressed that while enforcement measures are being strengthened, the EPA will continue to engage stakeholders to encourage compliance before the January 2027 implementation of the nationwide Styrofoam ban.