The 9 p.m. closure of bars is accompanied by a shift in the habits of local businesses. In several neighborhoods, grocery stores are reducing their opening hours. Some shopkeepers explain their reluctance to stay open late, citing fears of theft. “Even before this measure, we were already closing at 7 p.m. because we are afraid of thieves,” explains Ravaka, a grocery store owner. For her, early closing is primarily a matter of security.
However, in some grocery stores well-known to local residents, a different arrangement has been put in place. Even when the shop is closed, regular customers can go directly to the shopkeeper’s home when they need a product. The seller then opens up to allow them to make their purchase. This practice, however, remains reserved for businesses where a relationship of trust exists between sellers and customers.
For other residents, last-minute shopping is becoming more complicated. A forgotten product or an unforeseen need in the evening can pose a problem, as shops are already closed. In some fokontany (neighborhoods), residents are also being made aware of the need to respect the 9 p.m. closure. Between security imperatives and compliance with instructions, business hours are gradually shortening. Consumers must now better anticipate their evening purchases.
Fanilo Mampianintsoa
Captured & Published at: 2026-08-12 06:24:26 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/08/insecurite-les-commerces-reduisent.html