In a move that has sparked mixed reactions among Indian online shoppers, Amazon India has introduced a flat ₹5 platform fee on all customer orders, including those made by Amazon Prime members. This charge, which applies even to small-value purchases, is aimed at managing rising operational costs and maintaining platform efficiency.

The fee is modest in value, but significant in implication. It signals Amazon’s effort to offset increasing logistics, fuel, and labor costs without dramatically increasing product prices. A company spokesperson explained that the platform fee is inclusive of taxes and will appear clearly in the order summary.

Notably, this isn't an isolated trend. Flipkart implemented a ₹3 fee earlier, while quick-commerce players like Blinkit, Zepto, and Swiggy Instamart also introduced similar platform or delivery charges. Amazon’s move is seen as aligning with this broader shift in e-commerce economics.

Amazon’s ecosystem in India is vast, ranging from groceries and gadgets to fashion and home goods. Even with a ₹5 fee, many consumers are expected to tolerate the charge due to convenience, fast delivery, and extensive selection.

For Prime subscribers, however, the change is more surprising. Prime membership was previously associated with zero additional fees on most orders, leading some users to question its value. Amazon has responded by emphasizing other Prime benefits, including Prime Video, Music, and exclusive deals.

Ultimately, this fee represents a new chapter in online retail economics. As e-commerce matures in India, platforms must find ways to balance profitability with customer expectations. For users, it may be time to reconsider cart sizes, shipping options, and membership plans to make the most of each order.