(Photo: Agencies)

DAR ES SALAAM, May 24 (Xinhua) -- The government of Tanzania on Friday issued guidelines for implementing a ban imposed on the use, manufacturing and importation of plastic bags.

Joseph Malongo, the Permanent Secretary in the Vice President's Office responsible for the Environment, issued the guidelines.

Malongo said inspection will be held in retail shops, market places, wholesalers, warehouses, factories, along the country's borders and any other places where plastic bags were sold.

According to him, inspectors and other implementing officials will be required to introduce themselves each time they arrive at places subject to inspections.

Malongo said: "Any person who will be found in possession or still using the prohibited plastic bags will be liable to a fine and sued in court if the fine was not paid on time."

In his budget speech in parliament in April this year, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa announced a total ban on production, importation, sell or use of plastic bags with effect from June 1, 2019.