Food Delivery Gets Costlier as Zomato Raises Platform Fee
Zomato Increases Charges Amid West Asia Tensions Impact: India’s food delivery sector is witnessing a rise in customer costs as global crude oil prices surge due to escalating tensions in West Asia. The increase in fuel prices has begun affecting multiple sectors, including transportation and logistics, with food delivery platforms now passing on part of the burden to consumers.
Zomato has increased its platform fee by ₹2.40 per order, raising it from ₹12.50 to ₹14.90. The revision brings its pricing nearly at par with competitor Swiggy, which currently charges ₹14.99 per order, inclusive of taxes. This marks Zomato’s first fee hike since September 2025.
The rise in platform fees is largely attributed to increasing operational costs driven by higher fuel prices. Delivery services rely heavily on transportation networks, and any fluctuation in petrol and diesel prices directly impacts logistics expenses. As a result, companies are adjusting their fee structures to maintain margins while continuing operations.
Fuel Price Hike Impacts Online Food Orders Across India
This increase adds to the overall cost borne by customers, who are already paying delivery charges, taxes, and other service fees. Industry observers note that such incremental hikes, though small individually, can significantly raise the total order value over time.
At the same time, competition in the sector is intensifying. Rapido has entered the food delivery space with its service “Only,” launched in Bengaluru. The company claims it will not impose additional platform or service fees beyond delivery charges, positioning itself as a low-cost alternative.
Rapido’s entry could disrupt the market, especially as consumers grow increasingly sensitive to pricing and hidden charges. The move comes at a time when established players are balancing rising costs with competitive pressures, making the sector more dynamic.
As global geopolitical tensions continue to influence oil markets, their ripple effects are expected to persist across industries in India, including food delivery. Customers may continue to see gradual increases in service costs unless fuel prices stabilize in the coming months.
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