People often turn to online food delivery when they’re hungry, but from September 22, 2025, ordering food online might become a bit more expensive.
This is because of some important decisions made in the recent GST Council meeting.
Now, online food delivery and quick commerce platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, Blinkit, and Zepto will come under the 18% GST slab.
This means these companies will have to pay 18% GST on their services.
The big question is: Will this extra cost be passed on to the customers?
Platforms May Pass on the Cost to Customers
According to a report by Economic Times (citing Morgan Stanley), this new rule may add:
Around ₹2 per order for Zomato
Around ₹2.6 per order for Swiggy
Currently, the average delivery fee is:
₹11–12 for Zomato
₹14.5 for Swiggy
These companies are already dealing with rising costs and had recently increased their platform fees, especially to boost profits during the festive season.
With the new GST rules, it’s getting harder for them to absorb the added expenses.
Media reports suggest that companies are assessing how this will impact their profits.
However, an official from one of the platforms told Indian Express that they may have no option but to pass on this cost to the customers.
This means delivery charges could go up.
Could Customers Switch to Cheaper Options?
Once the new GST rates take effect, customers might start choosing alternatives like Domino’s, which charges:
5% GST
Packaging charges
In comparison, platforms like Swiggy and Zomato will now apply:
₹88 total charge (including restaurant GST, packing fee, and platform fee)
₹15 GST on that fee
Plus 18% GST on delivery charges
This could make food delivery through these platforms noticeably more expensive
