Hong Kong's Plastic Ban Leads to Uncertainty in Sushi Packaging

Hong Kong's plastic ban, which came into effect on January 1, 2025, has led to uncertainty in the sushi packaging industry. The ban covers polystyrene products and single-use plastic items like cutlery and straws for takeaways. Restaurants are now serving a variety of utensils to accommodate the new rules.

At the Japanese discount chain Don Don Donki, sushi is now being served in cardboard boxes instead of the usual transparent plastic containers. This change has raised concerns among some customers about the presentation and freshness of the sushi. While some customers don't mind the cardboard packaging, others prefer the see-through plastic boxes to inspect the sushi.

The government has given businesses a six-month grace period to adapt to the new rules. Offenders face a maximum fine of HK$100,000 (US$12,765) and can also be ordered to pay HK$2,000 under a fixed penalty scheme.

Despite the concerns, Hong Kong's authorities have clarified that retail supermarkets can still use plastic containers and lids for packaged food, including takeaway sushi. The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) stated that this allows customers to easily distinguish the quality and variety of the food. The EPD also clarified that packaging food for takeaway is not equivalent to dine-in service, and therefore, restaurants are still allowed to provide plastic cups and containers for takeaways.

The EPD will visit restaurants and retail premises during the adjustment period to address any misunderstandings or areas of uncertainty regarding the regulations. The plastic ban in Hong Kong will be introduced in two phases, with the first phase banning the sale and distribution of certain plastic tableware starting on April 22, 2023.

Why this matters: Hong Kong's plastic ban is part of a global effort to reduce plastic waste and protect the environment. The uncertainty surrounding sushi packaging highlights the challenges businesses face in adapting to new regulations while maintaining customer satisfaction and food quality.

On the first day of the ban, about 70% of restaurants had yet to switch to environment-friendly utensils as they tried to use up their existing plastic inventory during the 6-month adaptation period. The EPD said around 30% of restaurants have already switched to non-plastic cutlery, with the hotel and retail sectors achieving over 50% compliance. While the changes are expected to increase costs for businesses, the government is offering a grace period and working to enhance publicity about the new regulations, especially for tourists.

Key Takeaways

• Hong Kong's plastic ban effective Jan 1, 2025, impacts sushi packaging.
• Restaurants now serve sushi in cardboard boxes instead of plastic containers.
• Customers have mixed reactions to the new packaging, some prefer plastic.
• Plastic containers allowed for packaged food, but not for dine-in service.
• Businesses face challenges adapting to new regulations while maintaining quality.