“[A pack] has gone from [US$1] to [US$2]. And you can’t even get them now.”
The war in the Middle East has led to a plastic shortage in Taiwan, with local media calling the situation “plastic chaos.” Many are beginning to feel the effects, especially food vendors, with rising prices and the rationing of plastic bags.
Taiwan uses around 9 billion plastic bags annually, according to 2023 government figures, and they are seen as an essential part of everyday life.
The government is working to secure oil supplies and ramp up domestic plastic production to support consumers and businesses. But according to food vendors in Taipei, many customers are helping to shoulder the burden by bringing their own bags.
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Reporter: Irene Lin
Videographer and Editor: Alison Nguyen
Social Reporter: Chloe Wang
