In a bid to tackle the global fuel crisis triggered by the Iran war, the Bangladesh government has announced a series of austerity measures to conserve electricity and fuel. Following a cabinet meeting chaired by PM Tarique Rahman, it was decided that government and autonomous offices will now operate from 9 AM to 4 PM, reducing the workday by one hour.

The most controversial part of the plan is the mandatory closure of shops and shopping malls by 6 PM. Banks will also conclude transactions by 3 PM and shut down by 4 PM. While the government aims to cut state expenditure on fuel and electricity by 30%, business leaders have expressed deep concern, stating that early closures will lead to massive financial losses. Experts suggest that since the commercial sector accounts for only 11% of total power consumption, the impact might be limited. Additionally, a three-month ban on purchasing new vehicles and computers has been imposed. Shop owners are set to meet with ministers on Saturday to negotiate a potential extension of operating hours.