Sweden abolishes plastic bag tax as consumption declines

In May 2020, Sweden introduced a tax on plastic bags as part of its commitment to meet EU targets for reducing plastic use. However, the government has now concluded that the tax no longer serves its purpose, as consumption of plastic bags in Sweden has significantly decreased.

In response to this change, major grocery chains are planning to lower the prices of plastic carrier bags, effectively cancelling the 3 kronor tax. Coop has confirmed this price reduction, and Axfood, which operates chains like Willys and Hemköp, will follow suit. At ICA, pricing will vary between individual stores as each location can set its own prices.

This raises the question of whether consumers will continue their reduced purchasing behavior or if the lowered prices will encourage a resurgence in plastic bag sales.

For insights, watch customer reactions at grocery stores and hear perspectives from Per Carlbring, a psychology professor featured in a related video.