KARACHI, April 29, 2025 — The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially announced a public holiday on Thursday, May 1, 2025, in observance of Labor Day.
The decision was conveyed through a formal notification addressed to all banks, including microfinance institutions, development finance institutions, and other regulated entities.
In its circular issued on Tuesday, the SBP stated that all offices under its jurisdiction will remain closed on Labor Day, a national public holiday celebrated across Pakistan to honor the contributions of workers and laborers. The holiday is observed annually on May 1, in solidarity with the global labor movement.
The notification highlights the importance of Labor Day in recognizing the dignity of work and acknowledging the rights and welfare of laborers, who play a foundational role in Pakistan’s economic development. As per tradition, the central bank aligns its schedule with national observances to ensure consistency with government-declared holidays.
The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) also confirmed that trading operations will remain suspended on Labor Day, following a similar announcement issued a day earlier. The PSX informed all brokers, investors, and market participants that May 1 will be a non-working day for the bourse due to the national holiday.
Labor Day serves not only as a day of rest but also as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for labor rights and safe working conditions. It is a time for the nation to reflect on policies and progress made toward supporting the labor force, which includes workers from both formal and informal sectors of the economy.
This year, Labor Day will be marked with various activities, including rallies, seminars, and public discussions across the country, aimed at raising awareness about workers’ issues. Government departments, trade unions, and labor organizations are expected to organize events to highlight achievements and challenges in labor welfare.
As financial and capital markets pause their operations on May 1, institutions are advised to plan transactions and business activities accordingly. Regular banking and trading operations are expected to resume on Friday, May 2, 2025, following the one-day Labor Day holiday.