Polystyrene Foam Container Ban now fully in effect

Pago Pago, AMERICAN SAMOA — The enforcement of Public Law 38-12, also known as the Polystyrene Foam Container Ban or “Foam Ban,” is now fully in effect. This law was signed by Governor Lemanu on Feb. 6, 2024, following its passage by the Fono.

The American Samoa Environmental Protection Agency (AS-EPA) was aware of the challenges posed by this law and committed to helping local businesses transition to acceptable alternatives. To support this transition, AS-EPA delayed the enforcement of the sales and distribution ban until January 1, 2025.

Now that the deadline of Dec. 31, 2024, companies can no longer continue to sell existing stocks of polystyrene foam containers without penalties. 

Please note that the import ban on polystyrene foam containers remains permanently in place and will be strictly enforced by ASG Customs and AS-EPA. For questions or to report violations, contact us at