The Ministry of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Cooperative Development has announced plans to appoint a special expert committee to investigate and report on plastic-based products in the market that pose health risks to children.
Addressing a media briefing in Colombo yesterday, the Minister stated that decisive action will be taken within the next two months to prevent the circulation of such hazardous plastic items, particularly those used by children, based on the committee’s findings.
He specifically warned against plastic bottles used by children to store hot water, stating that laboratory tests have shown these products may release harmful substances when exposed to heat. “Some of these materials have been found to pose serious health risks, including the potential to release carcinogens during production and use,” he said.
The Minister emphasized that global attention has been drawn to the dangers of plastic products, especially those containing cancer-causing chemicals. He confirmed that local investigations have also revealed high-risk levels in several plastic items currently available in the market.
“We will summon importers and manufacturers and present the findings to them. The committee will be comprised of health and industry experts, and all stakeholders will be invited to raise their concerns. Based on the recommendations we receive, we will take the strongest possible regulatory and enforcement actions to protect children,” he added.
The Government’s upcoming measures are expected to include regulatory restrictions, stricter import controls, and potential bans on certain plastic products deemed unsafe for children.
