The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has expressed strong objections to the proposed nationwide ban on single-use plastics, warning that it could spell disaster for many small businesses.
In a statement the Director General of MAN Segun Ajayi-Kadir detailed the association’s concerns about the potential economic fallout from the ban.
Ajayi-Kadir highlighted that the proposed ban would necessitate major operational overhauls for affected companies. Manufacturers would face significant financial implications as they transition to alternative materials.
The process will involve substantial investments in research and development to identify and implement viable substitutes for single-use plastics. Additionally, companies will need to acquire new machinery and modify existing infrastructure to support the production of these alternatives.
The impact on various sectors is expected to be profound. The packaging, consumer goods, food and beverage, and healthcare industries are anticipated to experience major disruptions. Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) are particularly at risk due to their limited resources and ability to swiftly adapt to such regulatory changes.
Ajayi-Kadir further elaborated that the transition to alternative materials comes with high costs. Businesses will need to invest in new technologies, train employees, and deal with potentially higher-priced raw materials. Redesigning products to comply with the new regulations is not only costly but also time-consuming.
Additionally, the complex legal and administrative landscape associated with the ban could add to the operational burdens. The risk of facing substantial penalties for non-compliance could exacerbate the financial strain on businesses he added.
