Punjab market timings have been restored, with all markets, shops, shopping malls and commercial centres required to close at 8:00 pm from Tuesday.
Officials said the temporary relaxation in trading hours under the provincial government’s austerity drive had ended. A May 15, 2026, notification had allowed traders to keep markets open beyond regular hours until June 1.
Markets across Punjab, including Lahore, will now return to the previous timetable. The 8:00 pm closing time will apply to shops, malls and commercial centres.
The Punjab government said the decision is part of energy conservation and austerity measures. Officials said the policy aims to reduce power consumption and enforce disciplined commercial activity.
Read: Sindh Market Timings Exemption Announced For Businesses
The move has raised concern among traders in Punjab. Business representatives said shorter evening hours could affect sales during the ongoing heatwave and weak market conditions.
Sources said that trader associations had begun urgent consultations with senior officials to seek an extension of the relaxed timings.
Traders urged the Punjab government to reconsider the decision, citing expected revenue losses.
No fresh notification has been issued so far. Authorities are expected to enforce the 8:00 pm closure policy from Tuesday.
