The introduction of a controversial recycling scheme has been postponed for another 10 months following a massive backlash from businesses.
The deposit return scheme (DRS) was due to launch across Scotland from August 16 but will now be pushed back to March 1 next year.
Humza Yousaf said today the delay would help firms prepare for its introduction.
The policy is meant to boost recycling rates by charging a 20p deposit on every single-use drinks bottle or can.
But dozens of small breweries and distillers have warned it could push them out of business by massively increasing their costs at a time when they are already being hit by inflation.
The scheme has also been criticised by SNP MSPs - including Yousaf's former leadership rival Kate Forbes, who pledged to scrap it.
The delay was announced by the First Minister as part of a wider "reset" between the Scottish Government and businesses.
Yousaf told MSPs: "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.
"We have also developed a package of measures to simplify and de-risk the scheme, and to support small businesses and hospitality in particular."
Under the scheme every Scottish producer will have to add a 20p to every product before it is sold anywhere in the country.
The charge is passed on to retailers and in turn to customers who can claim cash back for every returned bottle or can.
UK Hospitality Scotland director Leon Thompson said: "We urged the First Minister, when he was appointed, to reset and repair the relationship with business and his actions today show that is his intention.
"Not only will the delay to the deposit return scheme avoid inflicting enormous pain and cost onto hospitality businesses this August, it also offers a signal to business that their concerns are being heard and their importance to the Scottish economy recognised.
"Commitments to take a fresh look at the alcohol and marketing proposals and reviewing business rates as part of looking at better support for business are further signs the Scottish Government will be taking business more seriously and are extremely welcome.
"A wholesale business rates review, in particular, has been a long-standing ask of UKHospitality Scotland, in order to bring the system into the modern age.
"Let’s not forget that the deposit return scheme will return in March next year and the next 10 months need to be used extremely wisely and productively to make it fit-for-purpose.
"Meaningful engagement with hospitality businesses is essential to get this right and UKHospitality Scotland is eager to work with the Scottish Government on just that."
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