Govt Considers Reducing Market Hours Nationwide: Ali Pervaiz Malik
Islamabad: Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik has said that the government is considering reducing market operating hours across the country as part of ongoing policy deliberations.
Speaking during a private TV program, he stated that if the decision is implemented, wedding halls and restaurants may be required to close by 10 PM.
He further revealed that Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb is scheduled to travel abroad next week to meet officials from the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank. The purpose of the visit is to brief them on the current economic situation, as the country could face a significant economic shock.
Malik noted that the United Arab Emirates had extended crucial support by placing deposits worth $3.5 billion in Pakistan during difficult times, adding that the government is fully prepared in case their return is requested.
He also said that following the suspension of gas supply from Qatar, local gas fields are currently supplying between 400 to 500 MMCFD (million cubic feet per day) to meet demand.
