Face coverings in shops in Northern Ireland could become mandatory from 20 August as part of the easing of COVID-19 lockdown.
However, a campaign by the NI Executive to encourage people to adopt masks prior to this will be launched.
The executive said it may enforce the rule if not enough people wear masks voluntarily. Employees, children under 13 and those who cannot wear masks for health reasons will be exempt.
The move is part of a number of changes announced on Thursday.
Face coverings are already mandatory in shops in Scotland and will become compulsory in England from Friday 24 July.
Meanwhile, swimming pools, community centres; bowling alleys, spas and funfairs can open their doors from Friday 24 July.
Health Minister Robin Swann added: “We need to promote every available measure to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our community. The evidence in support of face coverings in shops and other enclosed spaces has become increasingly compelling.”
The NI Executive on Thursday also announced an easing of restrictions on outdoor sports events and on gatherings in homes. The number of people from different households allowed to gather in a home rises to 10 and can consist of people from up to four different households.
And from 10 August, indoor pubs and bars that only sell alcohol are scheduled to re-open.
Meanwhile, a coronavirus contact tracing app for Northern Ireland will be launched next week.