The Government of Punjab has announced a relaxation in early closure timings for businesses across the province, allowing commercial activities to continue without the previously imposed restrictions until June 1, 2026.

According to an official notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD), the exemption applies to shops, markets, shopping malls, hotels, restaurants, and food outlets operating throughout Punjab.

The latest decision has been made in continuation of an earlier notification released on April 6, 2026, which introduced temporary relief measures for the business community. Authorities stated that the extension aims to facilitate commercial activity and provide operational ease to traders and businesses across the province.

Under the revised policy, commercial centres and retail outlets will be permitted to operate beyond the standard closure hours that were previously introduced as part of energy conservation and administrative measures. The move is expected to benefit shopkeepers, restaurant owners, and shopping mall operators who had raised concerns over reduced business hours impacting sales and customer flow.

Business groups and traders’ associations have welcomed the development, saying the relaxation could help improve economic activity, especially during peak evening shopping hours when markets usually witness heavy customer traffic.

Restaurants, hotels, and food outlets are also expected to benefit significantly from the decision, as late-night dining and food delivery services contribute heavily to the hospitality sector’s revenue. Many business owners had been requesting extended operational hours to accommodate customers and improve overall market performance.

Officials have clarified that while the restriction on closure timings has been relaxed, businesses are still expected to comply with all other government regulations and administrative directives issued by provincial authorities.

The Punjab government has continued to review business-related policies in recent months as it balances economic activity, public convenience, and administrative management. The latest notification is being viewed as a positive step for the retail and hospitality sectors ahead of the summer season.

The extension of relaxed timings is likely to provide relief to thousands of businesses across Punjab while also supporting consumers who prefer shopping and dining during late evening hours.