The Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Employment has announced operating hours for different businesses which allows all businesses to operate at least till midnight. According to the ministry, the change will bring about a positive impact on the country’s economy, especially for small-scale businesses. It is also expected to provide flexibility and convenience to customers. The ministry announced this decision through a notification on Tuesday which states that the extended time is to be followed uniformly throughout the country.
Places of entertainment which include karaoke, discotheque, live music, snooker houses and restaurants can operate their businesses on all days of the week.
These places of entertainment except for restaurants can operate till 3 am.
All other businesses can operate till midnight.
Businesses that are allowed to serve alcoholic beverages are not allowed to serve liquor items before 1 pm.
The notification also states that fuel retail outlet services will be provided 24/7 and 24/7 convenience stores can continue as usual.
The ministry says there was also no official closing time for businesses in the country. This they say created confusion and often led to disagreements between business owners and law enforcement officials. They say the notification will provide clarity in the enforcement of business rules.
The ministry also said that the extension was based on the request of several business owners whose sustainability had been affected compared to past years.
BBS talked to a few people who said the extension would definitely benefit the public.
“In times of emergencies, the 24/7 fuel services would be beneficial for us. Usually, when we come at night, we don’t get fuel. Now, it will be convenient,” said Mon Saya Nesor, a resident.
“This will benefit people who travel via buses because sometimes they reach after the hotels close. They can now stop worrying about getting a hotel to stay for the night. I believe this extension will benefit everyone,” said Sherub Jamtsho, a business owner in Zhemgang.
Similarly, some business owners said that the extended timing would help boost their business.
“Our karaoke is open twice to thrice in a week. When we have to close by midnight, the customers have to leave at the peak of their interest hour. I think that the extended time up till 3 am would help us retain our customers,” said Phuntsho Namgyel, a business owner in Pema Gatshel.
“The previous closing time was problematic for us especially because police came around and forced us to close. Now with the extension of the business timing, we are happy because this will help us business operators regarding our sustainability,” said Tshering Nidup, a business owner in Tsirang.
The ministry also says that Dzongkhag and Thromde authorities can extend business hours on special occasions through a written notification.
Tashi Yangden
Edited by Yeshi Gyaltshen
