HUMZA Yousaf announced a major U-turn on the controversial deposit return scheme (DRS) as part of a government relaunch.
He also axed plans for an alcohol advertising ban amid fears of industry job losses.
Yousaf used a keynote Holyrood speech yesterday to lay out his priorities for the next three years, such as improving relations with businesses.
But Labour claimed his big policy announcements were overshadowed by the "scandal and division" within the SNP.
The DRS, which aims to boost recycling, has been slammed by companies for being costly and complicated.
Yousaf confirmed implementation of the scheme would be put back from August, saying: "I remain committed to this scheme as a way to increase recycling, reduce litter and help achieve our net zero ambitions.
"But we recognise the uncertainty that continues to be created as a result of the UK Government delaying the decision to exclude the scheme from the Internal Market Act.
"We had hoped for that decision this week but it has not come. At the same time, I, and the Circular Economy Minister, have heard the concerns of business, particularly about the scheme's readiness for launch this August.
"As a result, we will now delay the launch of the scheme to March 1, 2024.
This provides 10 months for businesses to get ready. We will use that additional time to work with businesses, and Circularity Scotland, to address concerns with the scheme and ensure a successful launch next year.
This story is from the April 19, 2023 edition of Daily Record.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the April 19, 2023 edition of Daily Record.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
ATA BHOY BRENDAN
Rodgers vindicated as he proves he can get results away against the big boys
IT WAS A THRILL MEETING OUR ZERO
Last-gasp tackles and headers galore but Trusty insists he loved Hoops' backs-to-the-wall display that earned vital point
ONE MAN AND HIS GOG
Tour with Tynie kitman shows boss Neil scale of task ahead
SLOT STERNUL
Nunez strike makes it 9 out of 9 for Pool
UNAITED FRONT
McGinn: Villa feed off driven Emery
THE RAG AND THRONE MAN
ANDERS HOLCH POVLSEN may carry a name that sounds more like a game changer on the pitch than off it.
TYSON BABY LOSS AGONY
| Fighter's wife suffered miscarriage ahead of Usyk bout
HAZEL'S BAFTA AWARD JOY
Sports broadcaster to receive prestigious gong
Hospital infection mum Gail''suffered too much'
A WOMAN who died after she contracted an infection linked to pigeon droppings \"suffered too much\", her daughter has told the Scottish Hospitals Inquiry.
BRAVE RILEY'S TUMOUR FIGHT
Routine pre-school exam revealed golf ball-sized lump behind his eye