SINGAPORE – Japanese supermarket chain Don Don Donki has reintroduced biodegradable plastic bags across its 17 outlets in Singapore, seven months after halting their sale. The move, effective from May 19, 2025, is aimed at supporting customer convenience while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.
A Shift to Eco-Friendly Plastic Bags
In a recent Facebook announcement, Don Don Donki shared that the newly available bags are biodegradable, designed to naturally break down over time, helping reduce long-term environmental impact.
The bags are now available at 5 cents each, aligning with Singapore’s nationwide disposable bag charge that applies to all major supermarket chains with annual revenues exceeding S$100 million.
“We want to support our customers’ needs while staying environmentally responsible,” said Don Don Donki.
Background: Singapore’s Plastic Bag Policy
As of July 2023, the Singapore government requires large supermarket operators—including FairPrice, Giant, Sheng Siong, Cold Storage, and Don Don Donki—to charge a minimum of 5 cents per disposable bag to reduce plastic waste and promote eco-conscious habits.
Prior to this, Don Don Donki charged 10 cents per plastic bag, then lowered the fee to 5 cents to comply with the updated regulations. In October 2024, the brand made headlines by completely discontinuing the sale of plastic bags at all its outlets.
Why Bring Plastic Bags Back?
According to Don Don Donki, the decision to reintroduce plastic bags—albeit eco-friendly ones—was largely based on customer feedback and shopping behaviour.
For many customers, especially those making unplanned visits, the lack of bags posed a challenge in carrying their purchases. One Facebook user shared that he visited Don Don Donki less often after they stopped offering bags in 2024. Another suggested introducing discounts for customers who bring reusable bags—a model already adopted by some retailers globally.
Balancing Convenience and Sustainability
Don Don Donki’s new approach reflects a pragmatic balance: supporting shopper convenience without abandoning their environmental goals. The biodegradable bags aim to provide a greener alternative while still giving customers the option to carry items easily when reusable bags aren’t available.
The chain also continues to encourage shoppers to bring their own reusable bags whenever possible—a habit that helps reduce waste and promote sustainable shopping.
What’s Next for Eco-Friendly Retail in Singapore?
Don Don Donki’s move highlights an important conversation in Singapore’s retail landscape: How can supermarkets balance environmental responsibility with practical shopper needs?
With over 400 supermarkets in Singapore under the mandatory bag charge, more retailers are expected to adopt eco-friendly packaging solutions that meet both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations.
Summary: Key Points for Shoppers
- Biodegradable plastic bags are now available at Don Don Donki outlets across Singapore.
- Each bag costs 5 cents, in compliance with national regulations.
- The bags are designed to decompose naturally, reducing long-term environmental impact.
- Shoppers are still encouraged to bring reusable bags.
- The change comes after customer feedback and behavioural insights over the past seven months.
