The Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) has confirmed that IT companies and call centres across Pakistan can continue working as usual under the Government’s latest austerity and fuel conservation notification issued on 17 September 2026.
What is the new austerity notification?
On 17 September 2026, the Cabinet Division issued Notification No. 7-2/2026-Min.I. It introduces several cost-saving and fuel conservation steps for government departments, including a 50 percent cut in fuel for official vehicles, a ban on new vehicle purchases, restrictions on foreign travel, and limits on official dinners and seminars.
The notification also keeps the market closing timings that were first announced on 19 June 2026 in place.
Market closing timings under the notification
These timings apply seven days a week:
- Shops, markets, malls, bazaars, grocery and kiryana stores: 9:00 PM
- Marriage halls, marquees and event venues: 10:00 PM
- Restaurants, cafés, eateries and fruit and vegetable shops: 11:00 PM (takeaway and home delivery are exempt)
Which businesses are exempt from closing timings?
The notification clearly lists the following as exempt:
- Pharmacies, medical stores, labs, clinics and hospitals
- Standalone bakeries, tandoors and milk and dairy shops
- Fuel and CNG pumps and EV charging stations
- Gyms, sports facilities and padel courts
- IT companies and call centres
What does this mean for the IT industry?
PSEB has informed its registered IT companies and call centres that there is no restriction on the IT industry from carrying out its business and operational activities. This is important because many IT firms and call centres serve international clients in different time zones and work in night shifts.
In simple words, if you run a software house, BPO or call centre in Pakistan, you do not need to change your working hours. Your operations can continue as normal.
Why this matters for Pakistan’s IT exports
Pakistan’s IT sector is one of the fastest growing export industries in the country. Most call centres and software companies work at night to match US, UK and Middle East business hours. Any closing time restriction would have directly affected export revenue and jobs. The exemption shows that the Government recognises the IT sector as an essential service for the economy.
Can a business apply for an exemption?
Yes. The notification allows the Committee for Monitoring and Implementation of Fuel Conservation and Additional Austerity Measures to review exemption requests on a case by case basis. Recommendations are then sent to the Prime Minister for approval. Provincial and regional governments have also been asked to consider adopting similar measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do IT companies have to close at 9 PM in Pakistan?
No. IT companies and call centres are exempt from the market closing timings under the 17 September 2026 notification.
Are call centres allowed to run night shifts?
Yes. Call centres are listed as exempt and can operate 24 hours.
Does this apply to freelancers and home-based IT workers?
The closing timings apply to commercial establishments, so home-based work is not affected.
Where can I read the official notification?
The full notification is available here: https://techdestination.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Austerity-Notification-Dated-17.9.26.pdf
Need help?
For questions, contact the PSEB Industry Facilitation Department at support@pseb.org.pk or call the helpline at 0800-01010.
Source: Cabinet Division Notification No. 7-2/2026-Min.I dated 17 September 2026 and PSEB circular to registered IT companies and call centres.
