Against the backdrop of the global instability triggered by the ongoing war in the Middle East, the Bangladesh Shop Owners' Association (BSOA) has decided to close all shops, commercial outlets and shopping malls across the country by 8:00 pm to save electricity and fuel.
The association in a press release sent to the media on Thursday (April 2, 2026) said that they took the decision following the global fuel instability due to the ongoing fierce military conflict between US- Israel and Iran since February 28, 2026.
The decision was made during a joint meeting of the BSOA and the Standing Committee of the Dhaka Metropolitan Shop Owners' Association in the capital, says a press release.
The release further said that, in the light of the international energy crisis, the early closure aims to support the government by conserving electricity and fuel.
As a result, all shops, commercial outlets, and shopping malls in Dhaka and across Bangladesh will close by 8:00 pm.
Nazmul Hasan Mahmud, president of the BSOA, said that the notice was issued on Thursday and the decision will take effect immediately.
He added that some may not be aware of the directive on Thursday (yesterday).
He said that it will be implemented in almost all shopping malls and shops from tomorrow.
He said that hotels, pharmacies and stores providing essential services, and kitchen markets have been exempted from the shutdown.
talhabinhabib@yahoo.com