The government of Bangladesh has officially reverted to the 8 PM closing mandate for all shops, shopping malls, and commercial establishments across the country. This decision follows the conclusion of a temporary extension period that was granted to facilitate festive shopping during the Durga Puja season.
Earlier this month, on October 5, the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources issued a directive allowing businesses to remain open until 10 PM. This measure was specifically intended to accommodate the surge in consumer activity leading up to the Durga Puja festival. The extended hours were effective until October 22, providing a significant window for retailers and shoppers alike.
According to the ministry's initial announcement, the extension was strictly temporary, with a clear stipulation that the standard operating hours—closing at 8 PM—would resume on October 23. Consequently, as of last Friday, the original regulatory framework has been fully reinstated. The temporary relaxation had been implemented following formal requests from the Bangladesh Shop Owners Association to support local businesses during the peak festive season.
This policy of closing commercial establishments by 8 PM was originally introduced as part of a broader national strategy to conserve electricity and reduce the load on the national power grid. Despite the challenges faced by the retail sector, the government has maintained this stance as a necessary measure for national energy management and sustainability.
With the reinstatement of the 8 PM deadline, business owners are now required to ensure their operations cease by the designated time. Local administrative bodies are expected to monitor compliance to ensure the energy-saving mandate is strictly followed. Consumers are advised to plan their shopping activities accordingly to align with the restored closing schedule.
