As part of a new energy-saving strategy to help Pakistan's economy, authorities on Wednesday ordered markets and retail centers to close by 8:30 pm. The action is being taken in the midst of discussions with the IMF.

The government chose to close down businesses early as part of the new energy conservation plan authorized by the Cabinet, according to statements made on Tuesday by Pakistan's Ministers for Power and Defense, respectively, Khawaja Mohammad Asif and Ghultam Dastghir. Restaurants and wedding venues were also told by the authorities to close at 10 pm.

The government expects these measures to save energy and curtail the costs of imported oil, for which Pakistan spends $3 billion annually. In Pakistan, most of the electricity is generated by using imported oil.

So far, there has been a mixed reaction from representatives of shopping malls, restaurants, and shop owners who want the government to reverse the decision. Business leaders say the new measures will have a negative impact on their establishments, which suffered during the pandemic under government-imposed lockdowns to contain the spread of the coronavirus.