Pakistan ended all austerity measures but did not change business hours.
LAHORE – After announcing relief in petrol prices, the federal government has finally put brakes on the austerity drive. While authorities will no longer face restrictions on fuel use, spending, or foreign travel, businesses across Pakistan will continue to operate under the same early closing hours, giving traders little reason to celebrate.
Controversial early closing times for businesses across Pakistan will remain firmly in place. This decision was approved by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif through a notification issued by the Cabinet Division on Thursday. The move effectively ends a series of cost-cutting measures that were implemented amid concerns over energy consumption and government spending.
There will not be a 50% cut in petrol for government vehicles, foreign visits of ministers and officers will be restored, assembly members will get full salaries, shops and markets will be closed at 9 o’clock.
Shahbaz Sharif ended all austerity measures except for shops pic.twitter.com/AxPI9gWfxB
— Ahmad Waraich (@ahmadwaraichh) June 19, 2026
The restrictions that have now been lifted include a mandatory 50 percent cut in fuel consumption of government vehicles, restrictions on government spending and restrictions on foreign travel by ministers and senior government officials. The government has also confirmed that MPs and civil servants will continue to receive their salaries and allowances under the existing framework.
While the rollback shows a relaxation of austerity measures in government circles, ordinary businesses will see little change in their day-to-day operations.
Market and shop closing hours introduced earlier this month will continue unchanged as part of the government’s ongoing energy management strategy. Shops, bazaars, shopping malls, bazaars, department stores, and general retail outlets across the country should continue to close their doors by 9:00 pm, including on weekends.
Wedding halls, marquees, and other event venues will adhere to the 10:00 p.m. closing deadline, while restaurants, cafes, and other food establishments must close by 11:00 p.m. However, takeaway and home delivery services are exempted from the restrictions. Fruit and vegetable vendors, grocery stores and grocery stores are also allowed to remain open till 11 pm.
However, the government has maintained exemptions for several essential services and industries. Pharmacies, medical stores, laboratories, clinics, hospitals, standalone bakeries, bakeries, milk and milk shops, petrol pumps, CNG stations, electric vehicle charging facilities, gyms, sports complexes, paddle courts, IT companies, and call centers will continue to function unaffected by the closure hour restrictions.
Punjab has set new closing hours for markets, shops and restaurants.
The post Pakistan ended all austerity measures but did not change business hours appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.
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