The Bangladesh Shop Owners Association has formally requested permission from the Prime Minister to keep all shops, markets, and shopping malls open until 10 p.m. nationwide. The association submitted its appeal on Sunday, citing that the current operating hours are negatively affecting retail trade, employment, and overall economic activity. Association president Nazmul Hasan Mahmud confirmed the submission of the appeal.

According to the association, the retail sector is a vital part of the national economy, supporting around seven million shop owners, employees, and their families. Rising costs for rent, electricity, bank loan repayments, and wages have increased financial pressure on entrepreneurs. Many customers prefer shopping in the evening due to work schedules, but early closing hours are reducing potential sales.

The association argued that extending business hours until 10 p.m. would boost sales, protect jobs, and enhance economic momentum, potentially increasing government revenue. The government had earlier reinstated a 7 p.m. closing time from June 1 to conserve electricity, with a temporary extension during Eid-ul-Azha. No final government decision on the new request has yet been announced.