Traders cannot give “sili-sili” bags to customers for free when they sell goods, according to the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA).
The rule applies to bags made from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) that traders use to carry goods bought by customers.
Traders must charge for the bags
If a trader provides a “sili-sili” bag, the trader must charge a price for it.
The trader must also display the bag’s price clearly at the place of business.
In addition, the bag charge must appear on the bill given to the customer.
The CAA said traders should follow these requirements and keep the purchase bills, invoices and supplier details for the bags they obtain for their businesses.
Rule has been in effect since November 2025
The requirement comes under Direction No. 95, published in Extraordinary Gazette No. 2456/41 on October 1, 2025.
The direction came into effect on November 1, 2025.
The CAA said it will take legal action against traders who fail to follow the direction.
For traders, this means they cannot include a “sili-sili” bag as a free extra with a customer’s purchase. If they provide one, they must charge for it, display the price and record the charge on the bill.
The CAA has also asked traders to keep the relevant purchase records and supplier information for the bags used in their businesses.
The authority has encouraged consumers to use reusable bags where possible to reduce the use of polythene.
Sili Sili Bags
Last modified: September 16, 2026
