Shops, markets to remain open until 9pm under new schedule from today

The government has revised operating hours for shops, markets and shopping malls across the country, allowing businesses to remain open until 9:00pm from Thursday (June 11) in a move welcomed by traders.

Under the new schedule, retail shops, markets and shopping centres will operate daily from 11:00am to 9:00pm, according to the Bangladesh Shop Owners Association.

Association President Md Helal Uddin said the updated timing was communicated by the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources. He welcomed the decision and expressed gratitude to the government for responding to traders' concerns.

Business leaders had long been urging authorities to extend operating hours, arguing that shorter business periods were affecting sales and customer turnout.

Earlier, businesses were allowed to remain open until 10:00pm during the Eid-ul-Azha season. However, after the holiday period, the previous directive requiring establishments to close by 7:00pm was reinstated.

With the latest decision taking effect immediately, traders expect improved business activity and greater convenience for consumers, particularly in major urban centres where evening shopping remains a significant part of daily commerce.