Iquique Council considers restricting restaurant operating hours

The Iquique Municipal Council is set to vote on a proposal that would significantly restrict the operating hours of the local gastronomy and nightlife sectors. Under the proposed amendment to alcohol and commercial patent ordinances, Category ‘C’ establishments—including both daytime and nighttime restaurants—would be required to close at midnight from Sunday to Thursday.

Currently, these establishments are permitted to operate until 4:00 AM. While the draft includes limited exceptions for specific areas such as the Cavancha Peninsula or Balmaceda Park, it excludes major commercial hubs including Baquedano, Playa Brava, and the city center.

Councilman Cristian Barra has expressed strong opposition to the measure, warning of severe economic consequences. Barra argued that the sudden reduction in operating hours could devastate local tourism and lead to significant job losses, particularly for part-time workers and servers in a region already facing high unemployment rates.