Retailers seek permanent 10 pm closing time after Eid relaxation

Chainstore Association of Pakistan has welcomed the temporary extension in retail business hours ahead of Eidul Azha and urged the federal government to introduce a permanent nationwide market closing time of 10pm.

In a statement, the retailers’ body said the temporary relaxation had helped revive commercial activity, improve consumer convenience and restore business confidence after nearly five weeks of restricted operating hours.

The association said the impact of early market closures extended beyond retail businesses and affected manufacturers, transporters, logistics providers, shopping malls, warehouses, service providers and small businesses connected to evening commercial activity.

According to the association, around 60% of Pakistan’s manufacturing sector and 20% of the services sector are directly linked to retail activity, making the sector a major contributor to economic continuity and employment generation.

CAP Patron-in-Chief Tariq Mehboob said the temporary Eid relief had demonstrated that retail timings until 10 pm were economically workable and operationally feasible.

He said the issue was no longer limited to retailers alone, as the broader economic impact also affected manufacturing, logistics, services, shopping malls and employment across the supply chain.

The association urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the federal cabinet to adopt a permanent nationwide policy before the temporary relaxation period expires.