Markets, restaurants and malls allowed to stay open longer until June 1
Government of Punjab has relaxed operating hour restrictions for shops and businesses ahead of the Eid-ul-Azha shopping season, according to an official notification issued on Friday.
Under the decision, all shops, markets, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, and food outlets across Punjab have been exempted from previously prescribed closure timings until June 1, 2026.
The notification stated that business activities related to retail, hospitality, and food services would now be allowed to remain open beyond earlier notified closing hours during the exemption period.
The move came as commercial activity accelerated ahead of Eid-ul-Azha, one of the busiest shopping seasons in Pakistan.
The business community and traders welcomed the decision, describing it as a relief measure for both shopkeepers and consumers.
Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry praised the Punjab government for easing smart lockdown restrictions and extending market operating hours.
In a joint statement, RCCI President Usman Shaukat and Group Leader Sohail Altaf appreciated Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for responding to concerns raised by the business community.
They said allowing markets to remain open until 10:00 PM would support traders and facilitate shoppers during the peak Eid shopping period.
The RCCI leadership noted that traders had repeatedly urged the provincial government to review business timings due to rising commercial activity before Eid-ul-Azha.
They described the relaxation as a business-friendly step that would help revive economic activity and improve consumer convenience.
The chamber also expressed hope that the Punjab government may consider extending the revised timings beyond June 1 to maintain business momentum and market confidence.
“Alhamdulillah, the notification has now been issued and markets can remain open till 10 PM from today,” the RCCI statement said while thanking the government for addressing traders’ concerns.
The chamber reiterated its commitment to continue working with authorities to promote business-friendly policies and protect the interests of the trading community.