Disposable Carrier Bag Charge: Who Has to Charge, and How Much

Since 3 July 2023, supermarket operators with annual turnover above S$100 million must charge at least 5 cents per disposable carrier bag, nudging shoppers toward reusable bags.

Who it affects

• Residents: You'll be charged at least 5 cents per disposable bag at large supermarket chains, including Cold Storage, CS Fresh, Giant, Don Don Donki, FairPrice, FairPrice Finest, FairPrice Xtra, FairPrice Xpress, Marks & Spencer, Phoon Huat, Prime Supermarket, and Sheng Siong. The charge covers around 400 outlets, roughly two-thirds of all SFA-licensed supermarkets.
• SMEs: Only supermarket operators above the S$100 million turnover threshold are mandated, though smaller retailers sometimes charge voluntarily.
• F&B operators: Not directly covered by this specific charge, though many voluntarily reduce single-use packaging.

What you need to do

• Residents: Bring your own bags to avoid the charge. Note that bags for home delivery and scan-and-go purchases are still charged, since you had the choice to bring your own in-store, but online/click-and-collect delivery bags are not.
• SMEs above the threshold: Confirm your charge complies with the 5-cent minimum, is clearly disclosed at checkout, and that proceeds usage is published annually as required.

Related: Zero Waste Masterplan. Source: nea.gov.sg. Verified 7 Jul 2026.