He explained that all shops can remain open until 10pm every day, including Sundays and public holidays.

Before this period starts, shops can choose one day during the week during which they can remain open for business until 10pm.

Mr Vassallo said the decision was taken in order to facilitate late-night shopping for those who work later than the normal shop opening hours.

Moreover, on Saturdays, all businesses can remain open till 8pm.

Other businesses which do not have a time limitations include manufacturing industry enterprise in industrial zones, confectioneries and businesses with connections to the tourism sector.

Florist shops and stationers can remain open until 1pm while garden centres can open for business between 6am and 7pm on Sundays.