Government Extends Business Hours Nationwide, Shops To Remain Open Until 9pm
The federal government has approved revised operating hours for businesses across the country, allowing shops, markets and shopping malls to remain open until 9pm as part of efforts to facilitate commercial activity and accommodate seasonal changes in public routines.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the Committee on Monitoring and Implementation of Austerity Measures, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Officials said the revised timings were approved in view of longer daylight hours and rising temperatures, which have affected shopping patterns and business operations in many parts of the country.
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Under the new schedule, all retail businesses, shops, markets and shopping malls will be permitted to operate until 9pm nationwide. The government believes the adjustment will provide greater convenience to consumers while supporting economic activity and helping businesses serve customers during cooler evening hours.
Restaurants, cafes and other food and beverage outlets have also been granted extended operating hours and will now be allowed to remain open until 11pm. Officials said the revised timings are intended to strike a balance between public convenience, energy conservation objectives and the needs of the business community.
The committee clarified that several essential services will remain exempt from the operating-hour restrictions. Pharmacies, hospitals, petrol pumps and information technology and telecommunications services will continue to function according to demand and operational requirements without any mandatory closing times.
However, wedding halls and event venues will not be included in the latest relaxation. Authorities confirmed that marriage halls and related event facilities will continue to close at 10pm in accordance with existing regulations.
During the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar directed provincial governments to ensure strict implementation of the revised business timings across their respective jurisdictions. He emphasized the importance of coordination between federal and provincial authorities to maintain uniform enforcement and avoid confusion among businesses and the public.
Officials said the revised operating schedule is expected to provide relief to traders and consumers while supporting commercial activity during the summer season. The government will continue monitoring implementation of the new timings and assess their impact on business operations, public convenience and energy management in the coming months.
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