Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved new closing timings for commercial establishments across the country with immediate effect, citing extended daylight hours and rising summer temperatures. According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division and shared by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, a wide range of businesses will operate under revised schedules.
Revised Timings for Different Businesses
Under the new policy, markets, shopping malls, bazaars, departmental stores, grocery outlets, general stores and kiryana shops will close at 9:00 pm throughout the week. Marriage halls, marquees and other event venues will be required to close by 10:00 pm, while restaurants, cafes, food outlets and standalone fruit and vegetable shops may remain open until 11:00 pm. Takeaway and home delivery services have been exempted from the restrictions.
Exemptions from Restrictions
The notification also clarified that pharmacies, medical stores, laboratories, clinics, hospitals, bakeries, tandoors, milk and dairy shops, fuel stations, electric vehicle charging facilities, gyms, sports centres, IT companies and call centres will remain exempt from the revised closing hours. Provincial and regional administrations have been directed to implement the updated schedule in their respective jurisdictions.
The decision follows earlier government measures aimed at reducing energy consumption and managing economic pressures, including restrictions on official fuel use and adjustments to commercial operating hours.
