Amazon India to Introduce ₹5 Marketplace Fee Per Order

Amazon India has announced that it will begin charging a ₹5 (Indian Rupees) marketplace fee on each customer order. The company stated that this fee aligns with common industry practices and is designed to help sustain a platform that offers millions of products from a diverse range of sellers, along with reliable doorstep delivery services.

According to the official statement, the ₹5 marketplace fee will be inclusive of all applicable taxes and will apply to all customers — including Amazon Prime members. However, certain product categories, such as digital and physical gift cards, as well as Amazon Business (B2B) orders, will be exempt from the charge.

Why the Marketplace Fee Is Being Implemented

Amazon India emphasized that maintaining a large-scale, customer-centric e-commerce ecosystem requires continuous investment in technology, logistics, seller support, and customer service. The introduction of the marketplace fee is part of the company’s broader effort to ensure a sustainable business model amid rising operational costs.

This move comes as India's e-commerce sector continues to expand, with increasing demand for faster delivery and a wider selection of products. Industry analysts note that modest fees like this one are commonly used across the e-commerce landscape to offset platform maintenance costs and infrastructure investments.

How Will It Impact Shoppers?

For individual shoppers, the ₹5 fee represents a minor addition to their order total. Given the typical average basket size on Amazon India, this fee is unlikely to deter purchase behavior, particularly among Prime members who value fast and reliable shipping.

At the same time, transparency is key: Amazon is expected to clearly display the marketplace fee during the checkout process so that customers are fully informed.

Broader Trends in E-Commerce Fees

Amazon's decision mirrors trends seen across major global e-commerce platforms, many of which have introduced various forms of small service fees to help balance rising costs. With heightened competition and a push toward profitability, platforms must continually adapt their revenue models while maintaining customer trust.

As India's online shopping market becomes increasingly sophisticated, such changes may gradually become the norm — provided they are implemented transparently and with clear communication to consumers.

Why It Matters for Shoppers and Sellers

Amazon India's new ₹5 marketplace fee is a strategic step aimed at supporting the platform's ongoing investments in product variety, logistics, and customer service. While small, the fee reflects the broader industry trend of recalibrating fee structures to sustain long-term growth.

For online sellers and logistics partners, understanding these shifts is essential to navigating India's dynamic e-commerce landscape. If you're managing cross-border shipments or expanding your business into India, staying informed of such developments can help you plan ahead.