As reported in Plastics News, US retail plastic bag makers have filed a petition with the US government requesting an additional 25% tariff on bags from China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

The 25% would be in addition to existing tariffs of about 35% on imports from China, and 15%-20% on imports from Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam

US imports of polyethylene bags and sacks have fallen substantially from record levels in 2022, although noting a slight upward trend in 2025. Tariffs played a key role in the drop in 2023 but also important over the period has been bag bans and fees aimed at reducing environmental impact. A landmark study in Science showed that bans and fees in several states have had a significant impact on shore pollution, the studly likely adding additional impetus for bans and fees in additional states.

Imports into US from all leading sources were down in 2025 versus 2021 except Thailand and Vietnam. Imports from Canada and Mexico were also lower. These are duty free under the USMCA trade agreement, provided they meet increasingly stringent country of origin requirements.

From International Trader Publications’ Polyethylene Bags/Sacks World Trade Analysis, a continuously updated analysis of global trade based on latest statistics from all available countries.