India's Opposition to Plastic Production Restrictions

India’s Position Simplified

India supports limiting discussions to plastic pollution rather than capping plastic production. It argues that restricting production could harm the development needs of countries, especially those relying on polymer production for economic growth. India aligns with a group of Like-Minded Countries—including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Russia, China, Bahrain, and Cuba—that oppose restrictions on the production of plastics or specific chemicals used in manufacturing.

FAQs

1. What is the Global Plastics Treaty?

It is a proposed international agreement in which around 180 countries aim to tackle plastic pollution through legally binding measures.

2. What is the current progress in negotiations?

Progress is slow. Countries have yet to agree on a roadmap, and contentious issues like production caps have prevented consensus.

3. What is India’s main concern?

India opposes production limits on plastics, insisting that the focus should remain on reducing pollution, improving waste management, and avoiding measures that hinder economic development.

4. Who supports India’s view?

The Like-Minded Countries group—including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Russia, China, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Cuba—shares India’s opposition to production caps.

5. What are the other major disagreements?

Disputes over supply-side measures like production restrictions, timelines for phasing out certain plastics, and regulation of specific chemicals remain unresolved.

6. What’s at stake if no agreement is reached?

Without consensus, crucial measures—such as addressing chemicals of concern and controlling plastics across their life cycle—may not be implemented, reducing the treaty’s effectiveness.