Previously, the government decided that tips should remain voluntary.
In Kyrgyzstan, there is a trend where catering establishments have begun to add 15% for service to the price of their dishes. This was reported by Semetey Amanbekov, a well-known journalist and public figure, on his social media page.
He cited the example of the café "Mira," located on Shopokova Street, where prices have noticeably increased. When a customer asked the administrator about the reasons for the price hike, they were told that the 15% for service was already included in the cost of the dishes. Instead of canceling this rule, establishments simply incorporated it into the price. According to Amanbekov, the establishment keeps all the profits for itself, and waiters do not receive tips directly.
It is worth noting that the government had previously decided to abolish the mandatory percentage for service in cafes and restaurants in the country. This decision was prompted by the fact that in other countries, tips are considered voluntary rewards, and mandatory charges in Kyrgyzstan are perceived as a form of unfair earnings.
It is expected that the new norm will come into effect on January 1, 2026.
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