The federal government has officially announced revised business operating hours across Pakistan as part of its ongoing austerity and fuel conservation measures, urging provincial governments to implement the new schedule without delay.
According to the latest notification, shops, markets, shopping malls, and retail outlets will now be required to close at 9pm nationwide. Meanwhile, restaurants, cafes, and eateries have been permitted to continue operations until 11pm, providing additional flexibility for customers and business owners.
The revised timings were approved during a meeting of the Committee for Monitoring and Implementation of Austerity Measures, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. The committee reviewed existing energy-saving policies and agreed on updated measures aimed at reducing overall energy consumption while balancing commercial activity.
The notification also clarifies that takeaway and delivery services will remain exempt from these restrictions, allowing food businesses to continue serving customers beyond the designated closing hours. Similarly, marriage halls and event venues will continue following the existing rule requiring closure by 10pm, with no further changes announced.
Several essential sectors have been excluded from the restrictions. These include pharmacies, hospitals, petrol stations, IT services, and telecommunications providers, ensuring uninterrupted access to critical services for the public.
Federal authorities have directed provincial governments to coordinate with relevant departments and ensure effective implementation of the updated guidelines. However, some uncertainty remains as provincial administrations have not yet formally announced how and when the new business timings will be enforced within their jurisdictions.
The revised schedule follows earlier energy-saving initiatives introduced in response to rising fuel prices and increased economic pressures. Restrictions were temporarily relaxed ahead of Eid ul Adha to support commercial activity and provide relief to traders. With the holiday period now over, the government has reinstated updated operating hours as part of its broader strategy to manage energy consumption and promote fiscal discipline across the country.
Business communities and consumers are now awaiting provincial notifications that will determine the practical implementation of these new operating hours.
