The federal government has started consultations with provinces over the opening of business sectors under SOPs, said Federal Minister for Industries & Production Hammad Azhar on Tuesday.

“Started consultations at NCOC with provinces on review and possible revision of sectors (subject to SOPs) on Negative List of opening up,” said Azhar in a tweet post.

The sectors under review include tourism, restaurants, marriage halls, parks etc, added Azhar. The minister said that the government is also reviewing the timing for markets and industries. “Also reviewing the timing that markets and industries are allowed to operate,” he said.

The minister said after the provinces had finalized their recommendations, the matter will be referred to Prime Minister Imran Khan, who will make the final decision.

“We have collected the proposals and have asked provinces to finalize SOPs and enforcement methods. The proposals will now be taken to NCC headed by PM to take final decisions in this regard within a few days,” he said.