TOKYO — Japan's food sector faces widespread shortages of plastic trays, bags, and food service gloves due to supply disruptions. Supermarkets, bakeries, and takeout restaurants in Japan are experiencing shortages of plastic bags, trays, and food service gloves. This situation has led to public scrutiny regarding plastic container shortages for Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's administration. The disruptions prompted government response and public concern in May 2026.
The Japanese government characterized the plastic supply disruption as a bottleneck. Public opinion polls identify the plastic shortage as a concern for residents. Japanese municipal waste collection protocols require separating household trash into designated colored plastic bags. This requirement applies to household trash.
Supermarket Manager Takeshi Takanohira stated that his establishment has not received plastic trays for some produce since last month. He commented on the situation. "Since last month, we haven't been able to get any of the little plastic trays we use for some produce, so we just have to make do without them." Takanohira said.
Retailers have implemented restrictions on plastic bag purchases, allowing only two per customer, following increased consumer buying activity. Japanese retailers have been required to charge for plastic shopping bags since 2020. Certain municipalities in Japan have authorized residents to dispose of waste in non-approved bags.
Japan's food sector utilizes nearly one-third of the country's annual plastic usage. The country's annual plastic usage exceeds 8 million tonnes. Naphtha is extracted from crude oil. It is used to manufacture printing ink, plastics, adhesives, and medical supplies. The Middle East serves as Japan's primary source of crude oil. This source is the main provider of the resource.