,"On December 3rd, 2025, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has circulated a notification at the request of the delegation of Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda titled ""WTO Circulates Draft DEAS 859: 2025 — Paper bags: Specification Second Edition"" the Draft East African Standard DEAS 859: 2025, which specifies quality and performance requirements for paper bags used for packaging and carrying goods. It covers the essential properties, tests, labeling, and packaging rules that manufacturers must follow to ensure uniformity and safety across East African Community member states.The draft standard requires paper bags to be made from clean, defect-free paper that may be bleached or unbleached. The minimum grammage is set at 50 g/m². Bags must meet key performance thresholds, including bursting strength, tear resistance in the machine direction, and a maximum water absorptiveness of 35 g/m², using defined ISO testing methods.Construction requirements ensure proper gumming of seams and closures, with adhesives required to be non-toxic. Bags must prevent leakage, especially when used for powders.Labeling rules require each bag or package to display: product name, manufacturer name or trademark, paper grammage, dimensions, country of origin, and batch or code number. Sampling and testing procedures are standardized through referenced ISO methods such as ISO 536, ISO 535, ISO 2758, ISO 1974, and ISO 187.Overall, the draft standard harmonizes specifications for paper bags within the region to support trade, quality assurance, and consumer protection.
Final date for comments: 1 February 2026"