Written by The Banking Post
The government has relaxed its earlier restriction on business hours, allowing markets and shopping malls to remain open until 7:00pm—one hour longer than previously announced.
The decision came just days after authorities had ordered shops to close by 6:00pm as part of austerity measures amid the ongoing energy crisis linked to Middle East tensions.
State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Anindya Islam Amit confirmed the revised timing on Sunday at the Bangladesh Secretariat, saying the move followed appeals from business leaders.
Traders had warned that the shorter hours were hurting sales and income, prompting the government to reconsider. Business representatives also proposed opening shops later in the morning and extending closing hours further, though no decision has been announced on those requests.
A visit to key commercial areas in the capital showed general compliance with the new directive, with most markets and shopping centres shutting by the 7:00pm deadline.
However, some roadside vendors were still seen operating beyond the permitted hours, though traders said they would adhere strictly to the rules from the following day.
The revised timing reflects a balancing act by authorities—aiming to conserve energy while easing pressure on businesses already grappling with a challenging economic environment.
