The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) issued a clarification on Wednesday regarding the definition of “takeaways” following complaints about inconsistent enforcement of the dine-in policy at supermarkets. According to the department, patrons eating sushi within the area of the supermarket where they bought it would be considered as consuming “takeaways” and therefore subject to the same regulations as those ordering takeaway meals.
The department’s clarification came after major Japanese discount chain Don Don Donki placed some sushi products in cardboard packaging for people who wanted to eat in the shop’s dining area. This move was in response to the first phase of the ban, which prohibited stores from offering plastic containers and lids for dine-in dishes.
However, the EPD clarified that restaurants could still offer plastic containers to diners who wished to pack food they did not finish. The department also pledged to address any misunderstandings among restaurant operators during the six-month grace period.
Under the first phase of the ban, restaurants are prohibited from offering styrofoam products and throwaway plastic items such as cutlery and straws to both dine-in and takeaway customers. They are also banned from offering plastic cups, containers, and lids to dine-in patrons.
The EPD’s clarification has drawn mixed reactions online. While some users welcomed the clarification, others expressed concerns about the lack of clarity over the new policy. Some also pointed out that supermarkets would still have to pack sushi in cardboard boxes eventually when the second stage of the ban kicks in, under which plastic containers would be banned for takeaway orders as well.
The government has given businesses a six-month grace period in which it would avoid enforcement action against those that failed to comply with the new rules. Offenders face a maximum fine of HK$100,000 (US$12,770) and may also be required to pay HK$2,000 under a fixed penalty system.
