Plastic Factory License in Bahrain

Starting a plastic factory in Bahrain can be a profitable business opportunity due to growing industrial demand across construction, packaging, and consumer goods sectors. Whether you’re manufacturing plastic bags, pipes, containers, or packaging products, obtaining a valid plastic factory license in Bahrain is mandatory to operate legally.
This complete guide explains everything about acquiring your plastic manufacturing license in Bahrain, including costs, required documents, setup procedures, and regulations.
Why Start a Plastic Factory in Bahrain?
The plastic manufacturing industry in Bahrain offers significant growth opportunities. Industries such as construction, FMCG, agriculture, and automotive sectors require plastic-based solutions.
Key Benefits of Starting a Plastic Factory in Bahrain:
- Strong demand from local industries
- Government support for manufacturing businesses
- Access to GCC markets via Bahrain’s free trade policies
- Opportunities to produce diverse plastic products
- High profitability in plastic packaging and construction materials
What is a Plastic Factory License in Bahrain?
A plastic factory license in Bahrain is an official permit issued by Bahraini authorities that legally allows you to manufacture, process, and distribute plastic products within Bahrain and export to other markets.
Without this license, operating a plastic manufacturing plant is not legally allowed in the Kingdom.
Types of Plastic Factory Licenses in Bahrain
Depending on your manufacturing focus, you can apply for specific license categories:
Plastic Packaging Factory License
For businesses producing:
- Plastic bags
- Food containers
- Bottles and jars
- Wrapping films
Plastic Pipes and Construction Products License
For factories manufacturing:
- PVC pipes
- Fittings and joints
- Construction sheeting
- Drainage pipes
Plastic Recycling Factory License
If you plan to collect and process used plastics for recycling, apply for a plastic recycling plant license.
Industrial Plastic Components License
For manufacturers producing:
- Automotive plastic parts
- Industrial plastic sheets
- Moulded plastic products
Step-by-Step Process to Obtain a Plastic Factory License in Bahrain
To legally establish your plastic factory in Bahrain, follow this structured process:
Step 1: Choose the Right Business Activity Code
Select the correct commercial activity code for:
- Plastic Product Manufacturing
- Plastic Recycling Services
- Plastic Packaging Production
Your business activity code defines your permitted operations.
Step 2: Reserve Your Trade Name
Register a unique trade name with the Ministry of Industry and Commerce. Your business name should reflect your manufacturing focus.
Step 3: Apply for Commercial Registration (CR)
Submit an application for your Commercial Registration (CR) via Bahrain’s Sijilat portal. This gives your factory legal identity and approval to operate.
Step 4: Obtain Industrial License
Since a plastic factory is a manufacturing unit, you must secure an Industrial License from Bahrain’s relevant authorities.
Submit:
- Factory layout and machinery list
- Raw material details
- Manufacturing process description
- Environmental compliance documents
Step 5: Get Municipality Approval for Premises
Ensure your factory site meets safety and zoning regulations. Submit:
- Land or lease documents
- Factory design layout
- Environmental impact assessment (if required)
- Fire safety compliance
Approval from the local municipality is mandatory before operations.
Step 6: Secure Environmental Approval
Plastic production involves chemicals and emissions. Obtain approvals from environmental authorities for:
- Waste management and recycling plans
- Chemical storage protocols
- Air and water pollution control measures
Step 7: Submit Plastic Factory License Application
Prepare and submit your full license application including:
- CR certificate
- Industrial license approval
- Municipality clearance
- Environmental certificates
- Payment of license fees
Step 8: Pay Plastic Factory License Fees
Fees typically cover:
- Commercial Registration (CR)
- Industrial license issuance
- Municipality and environmental approvals
- Factory inspection fees
Step 9: Receive Your Plastic Factory License
Once all documents and inspections are approved, your plastic factory license will be issued, allowing you to operate legally.
Documents Required for Plastic Factory License in Bahrain
- Passport and CPR copy of owners
- Commercial Registration (CR) certificate
- Lease or land ownership agreement
- Factory layout plan
- List of machinery and production capacity
- Environmental compliance documents
- Municipality premises approval
- Payment receipts of license fees
Cost of Starting a Plastic Factory in Bahrain
Costs depend on factory size and production type:
- CR registration fees: BHD 50 to BHD 100
- Industrial license issuance fees: BHD 1,000 to BHD 2,500
- Municipality approval fees: BHD 500 to BHD 1,000
- Environmental approval fees: BHD 1,000 to BHD 2,000
- Factory construction and machinery investment: BHD 200,000+
- Equipment, safety systems, and setup costs
Total investment can range from BHD 250,000 to BHD 1 million, depending on your manufacturing capacity and factory size.
Renewal of Plastic Factory License
Your plastic factory license must be renewed annually:
- Submit updated documents
- Pay renewal fees
- Pass required inspections
- Clear outstanding penalties (if any)
Health, Safety, and Environmental Regulations
To maintain your license, your factory must comply with Bahrain’s industrial regulations:
- Safe chemical storage
- Proper disposal of plastic waste
- Emission and pollutant control
- Workplace safety and protective equipment for workers
- Regular environmental impact assessments
Failure to comply can result in fines or license suspension.
Hiring Staff for Your Plastic Factory
- Employ trained factory operators and supervisors
- Workers must have valid work visas
- Provide safety training and protective gear
- Maintain compliance with Bahrain labor laws
Factory Layout and Production Guidelines
Your factory must follow structural and operational guidelines:
- Designated production zones
- Safe chemical storage areas
- Worker break and restrooms
- Emergency exits and safety systems
- Fire extinguishers and alarm systems
Opportunities to Expand Plastic Manufacturing Business
Once operational, you can:
- Expand into export markets via Bahrain’s Free Trade Agreements
- Introduce eco-friendly and biodegradable plastics
- Start a plastic recycling division
- Offer custom plastic product manufacturing
- Collaborate with construction or FMCG industries for direct supply
Benefits of Owning a Plastic Factory in Bahrain
- High demand from diverse industries
- Access to GCC and international markets
- Strong government support for manufacturers
- Profitability in both local and export sales
- Growing demand for sustainable plastic alternatives
Conclusion
Acquiring your plastic factory license in Bahrain is the first step toward establishing a successful manufacturing business in the Kingdom. From regulatory approvals to environmental compliance, following the proper setup procedures ensures your business operates legally and efficiently.
For a streamlined setup, consult with expert business setup consultants in Bahrain to simplify the licensing process and start your factory without unnecessary delays.
FAQs
Is a license mandatory to open a plastic factory in Bahrain?
Yes. A valid plastic factory license is mandatory to legally manufacture and sell plastic products in Bahrain.
What is the cost of a plastic factory license?
License fees typically range from BHD 1,000 to BHD 2,500, excluding CR registration and setup costs.
Are environmental approvals required?
Yes. Plastic factories must secure environmental clearance for waste management, emissions control, and chemical storage.
How long does it take to get a plastic factory license?
Generally, 4 to 8 weeks, depending on document readiness and inspection schedules.
Can foreign investors open a plastic factory in Bahrain?
Yes. Bahrain welcomes foreign investors under its manufacturing sector, subject to commercial regulations.
Is waste management mandatory for plastic factories?
Yes. Proper disposal and recycling of plastic waste are mandatory to comply with environmental standards.
Can I export plastic products from Bahrain?
Yes. With the proper licenses, you can export to GCC countries and beyond, leveraging Bahrain’s free trade agreements.
Do I need to renew the factory license annually?
Yes. Annual renewal is required to continue operations legally.