Early market closures: Businessmen urge PM to rationalise policy

ISLAMABAD: The business community of the federal capital on Thursday urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to rationalize the policy of early market closures, stressing the need for a balanced and consultative approach to safeguard economic activity.

In a letter addressed to the PM, the President of Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), Sardar Tahir Mehmood, highlighted the adverse economic impact of the enforced early closure of retail and commercial markets across Pakistan, particularly in Islamabad.

He pointed out that the decision, taken without adequate consultation with key stakeholders, has disrupted business operations and negatively affected multiple sectors of the economy. The ICCI president noted that the policy’s impact extends beyond retail markets to include restaurants, shopping malls, small and medium enterprises, and various service providers, leading to a slowdown in overall commercial activity.

He emphasized that the business community is already grappling with economic challenges, and such measures further compound their difficulties. He further stated in the letter that, in view of Pakistan’s important diplomatic role in facilitating the ongoing US–Iran negotiations, the business community is fully prepared to extend its unwavering support during the anticipated second round of these talks in Islamabad, recognizing their significance for regional peace, stability, and economic confidence.

Mehmood stressed that a rational and balanced adjustment in the early closure policy would provide immediate relief to businesses, restore confidence, and contribute positively to economic stability. He reiterated ICCI’s commitment to working closely with the government to ensure that economic policies are practical, inclusive, and growth-oriented.

Meanwhile, a delegation of the Islamabad Restaurants Association, led by its Chairman Habibullah Zahid, also visited the Chamber House on Wednesday to discuss the same issue. The delegation apprised the ICCI leadership of the challenges faced by the restaurant sector due to early closure timings and expressed support for ICCI’s stance on the need for policy rationalization.

On the occasion, ICCI Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub, Executive Members, Zulqurnain Abbasi, Imran Minhas were also present. The Islamabad Restaurant Association delegation included its President Khurram Khan, General Secretary Sikandar Bakhtiar, along with other members.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026