Now your favorite comfort food is becoming a bit more expensive. Following a similar move by its rival Zomato, Swiggy has officially increased its platform fee to Rs 17.58 per order (including GST). Therefore, customers across India will notice a nearly 17% jump in this specific charge starting today, March 24, 2026. Currently, both giants are aligning their pricing strategies to cover rising operational costs. Meanwhile, new competitors like Rapido are entering the fray with a “no-platform-fee” promise to lure hungry users away.
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At a Glance:
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The New Rate: Swiggy’s fee is now Rs 17.58, up from Rs 14.99.
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The Competition: Zomato recently hiked its pre-GST fee to Rs 14.90.
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Company Stance: The hike is intended to “operate and maintain the Swiggy platform.”
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Market Shift: Rapido’s “Ownly” service in Bengaluru is challenging the fee-heavy model.
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Impact: Frequent users will see a noticeable increase in monthly food spending.
In This Article:
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The 17% Jump: Breaking Down the Swiggy Fee
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Zomato vs. Swiggy: The Mirror Pricing Strategy
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Why Are Platform Fees Rising in 2026?
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The Rapido “Ownly” Threat: A No-Fee Alternative
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The 17% Jump: Breaking Down the Swiggy Fee
Now the era of “free” or low-cost delivery infrastructure is fading. Swiggy has raised its platform fee by roughly Rs 2.59 per order. Therefore, the total cost including GST now stands at Rs 17.58.
First, the company started displaying a message during checkout explaining the change. Next, they clarified that these funds are essential for app maintenance and technological upgrades. Thus, even if you have a “Swiggy One” membership, you may still encounter these mandatory platform charges on every checkout.
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Zomato vs. Swiggy: The Mirror Pricing Strategy
Now it is no secret that India’s two largest food delivery apps move in lockstep. Just days ago, Zomato increased its own pre-GST platform fee by Rs 2.40. Therefore, the total amounts charged by both platforms are now almost identical.
First, Zomato moved its base fee to Rs 14.90. Next, Swiggy responded with its 17.58 (post-GST) figure. Thus, the duopoly continues to test the price elasticity of the Indian consumer. So regardless of which app you choose, the “convenience cost” of ordering in remains roughly the same.
Why Are Platform Fees Rising in 2026?
Now many users are asking why these fees keep climbing despite record order volumes. Therefore, the answer lies in the quest for profitability.
First, logistics and fuel costs have seen significant fluctuations this year. Next, both companies are investing heavily in “Quick Commerce” (Instamart and Blinkit), which requires massive capital. Thus, the platform fee acts as a steady revenue stream that isn’t shared with restaurants or delivery partners. Currently, it is one of the most effective ways for these startups to improve their “take rate” on every transaction.
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The Rapido “Ownly” Threat: A No-Fee Alternative
Now a new player is attempting to disrupt the status quo. Ride-hailing startup Rapido has launched its own food delivery service, Ownly, starting in Bengaluru. Therefore, they are positioning themselves as the “pro-consumer” choice.
First, Rapido has stated they will not charge extra platform fees from customers or restaurants. Next, they only charge a basic delivery fee to cover the rider’s journey. Thus, if Ownly scales successfully beyond Bengaluru, it could force Swiggy and Zomato to rethink their aggressive fee structures later this year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the new Swiggy platform fee? The new fee is Rs 17.58 per order, which includes GST. This is up from the previous rate of Rs 14.99.
Does Zomato also charge a platform fee? Yes. Zomato recently increased its pre-GST platform fee to Rs 14.90, making the final cost very similar to Swiggy.
Why do I have to pay a platform fee if I have a premium membership? Platform fees are usually separate from delivery charges. While memberships like Swiggy One or Zomato Gold waive delivery fees, the platform fee is often a mandatory charge for “app maintenance.”
Which city has the new Rapido “Ownly” service? Currently, Rapido Ownly is operating in Bengaluru and does not charge a platform fee.
Will the platform fee increase again this year? While not confirmed, both companies have historically increased these fees incrementally every few months to reach profitability targets.
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