Punjab Business Closure Timings Relaxed for Markets and Restaurants
The Punjab government has officially relaxed early business closure timings for shops, markets, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, and food outlets across the province until June 1, 2026. The decision provides temporary relief to traders and businesses that were previously affected by strict austerity and energy conservation measures.
According to a notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD), businesses covered under the latest directive will no longer be bound by the mandatory early closure timings introduced earlier this year.
Last month, the Punjab government had ordered shops, markets, and shopping malls to close by 8 PM throughout the week as part of energy-saving policies. Hotels, restaurants, and food outlets were also instructed to shut operations by 10 PM, although takeaway and delivery services remained exempt from restrictions.
The move comes after growing pressure from traders and business communities, particularly in major cities such as Lahore and Rawalpindi, where market representatives argued that early closures were causing financial losses and reducing customer activity during evening hours.
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Several essential services had already been excluded from the original restrictions, including pharmacies, hospitals, petrol pumps, CNG stations, bakeries, tandoors, and milk shops.
Earlier this month, the Punjab government had also relaxed restrictions for IT companies, call centers, gyms, and sports facilities due to operational requirements and international business engagements.
Business groups have welcomed the latest decision, saying extended market timings are particularly important during the summer season when consumers prefer shopping after sunset due to high daytime temperatures.
The temporary relaxation is expected to support commercial activity and improve convenience for both businesses and consumers across Punjab over the coming weeks.
