6 imports from the West banned in parts of Africa and the Caribbean

Africa and the various Caribbean islands are equipped with many valuable resources. Like Africa, the Caribbean also has vast quantities of fisheries, oil, timber, petroleum and bauxite, to name a few.

Though Africa and the Caribbean are chock full of materials that can fuel a healthy economy, certain products are imported and they diminish the financial worth of the countries and take away the opportunity for inhabitants to live a lucrative life. After all, the continent and some islands hold the record for having some of the lowest gross domestic products (GDP), which is used to determine how well the standard of living is.

Nonetheless, there are some African countries that are putting a stop to imports that are hurting their economy and their environment; Western imports are many times rejected in their main markets due to safety or environmental hazards or issues.

Grenada announced on September 1 an initiative that is banning Styrofoam from entering the country. The ban was initiated in order to cease the use of single-use plastics and Styrofoam in alignment with the Non-Biodegradable Waste Control Act.

The second phase of the ban is to commence on March 1. Plastic bags will also be banned come February 2019.

The Caribbean 360 reported, “The Environment Minister described the Non-Biodegradable Waste Control Act as “progressive legislation” which seeks to regulate the use of non-biodegradable products, with a view to reducing the negative environmental impacts and improving the health of Grenadians.”

Scroll through to learn about the six imported items from the West banned in Africa and the Caribbean: