Lahore, April 24: Pakistan’s retail sector lost about Rs200 billion in economic activity over two weeks after authorities ordered markets to close by 8 pm, industry leaders told The Express Tribune, according to ANI.
The Chainstore Association of Pakistan (CAP) has urged federal and provincial governments to reconsider the nationwide early-closure directive, saying it disproportionately penalises organised, tax-paying retailers such as malls and chain outlets that face fixed costs like rent, salaries and utilities. CAP reported daily sales declines of 25–35% since the curbs began.
CAP Chairman Asfandyar Farrukh said the measure removes prime shopping hours between 8 pm and 10 pm—key urban consumer periods—and is not changing shopping habits so much as diverting customers away from documented retail channels. He also pointed to uneven enforcement, noting that restaurants and many informal businesses continue to operate late, creating an unlevel playing field for organised retailers.
The association estimates government tax receipts may have fallen by nearly Rs50 billion in the two-week span. The retail sector contributes roughly Rs3 trillion in taxes each year.
CAP Patron-in-Chief Tariq Mehboob questioned whether the policy will deliver meaningful energy savings, noting commercial activity accounts for around 8% of total electricity use and organised retail is typically more energy-efficient than households. He warned that shifting consumption to homes could increase overall inefficiency.
The early-closure order comes amid global energy uncertainties, including tensions related to the US-Iran situation, and analysts have cautioned that the curbs could carry significant economic costs, The Express Tribune reported.
This report is sourced from a syndicated feed and published as received; The Tribune assumes no responsibility for its accuracy or completeness.
