Pakistan has decided that all markets, shops, and shopping malls will close at 8pm starting April 7. The decision aims to regulate business hours and manage daily operations across the country. Retailers, consumers, and commercial establishments will be directly affected by the new timings.
The decision was made during a meeting on petroleum products chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. According to the official statement, grocery stores, daily-use shops, department stores, and malls will all follow the 8pm closure schedule.
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Bakeries, restaurants, tandoors, and food shops will be allowed to operate until 10pm, while marriage halls and banquet venues will also close after 10pm. Private properties and homes will follow the same restrictions for wedding events, limiting celebrations past 10pm.
Medical stores and pharmacies have been exempted from these restrictions, ensuring access to essential services remains uninterrupted. Authorities emphasized that exceptions are strictly limited to critical and health-related services to avoid disruptions.
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The new operating hours will come into effect from April 7, with authorities monitoring compliance across cities. Officials urged businesses and the public to follow guidelines, ensuring smooth implementation of the policy and minimal inconvenience.