The federal government has issued revised business operating hours under its austerity and energy conservation campaign, with the Cabinet Division formally notifying the new schedule.

According to the notification, shops, markets, shopping malls and general retail outlets will now close by 9pm.

Restaurants, cafés and food outlets will be allowed to operate until 11pm.

Wedding halls, marquees and other commercial event venues will be required to shut by 10pm, with authorities directing provincial governments and local administrations to ensure strict enforcement of the new timings.

The notification also specifies several exemptions.

Takeaway services, home delivery operations, bakeries, tandoors and gyms will remain exempt from the restrictions.

Essential services, including hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, petrol stations, IT and telecommunications sectors, will continue to operate without time limitations.

In Islamabad capital territory, shops and grocery stores will close at 9pm, while wedding halls and other commercial activities will be permitted until 10pm.

Restaurants, cafés, catering services, hotels and fruit and vegetable shops may remain open until 11pm.

The government said the measures are part of broader efforts to reduce energy consumption and improve efficiency across commercial sectors.