Complaints have been received by the editorial office of VB.KG from residents of Bishkek regarding the rising prices of dishes in restaurants and cafes following the cancellation of the service charge. In response to these concerns, we reached out to the Antimonopoly Regulation Service under the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, where the situation was commented on by Chairman Jenaly Orozbaev.
“As of January 1, 2026, a new resolution from the Cabinet of Ministers came into force, which amended paragraph 141. Now, additional charges for table setting and waiter services are not allowed. However, after these changes, we began receiving complaints from citizens who noted that the prices of dishes have increased, and they do not see any particular reason for this,” Orozbaev explained.
According to him, such a situation was predictable. Previously, establishments set their own service percentages, which might not have been reflected on the receipts and did not reach the waiters, but were still charged to customers. With the cancellation of this practice, prices should become more transparent, and all amounts will now go through the tax system.
Restaurants and cafes are also required to enter into employment contracts with waiters, which will specify their salaries. Orozbaev emphasizes that there are many establishments in Kyrgyzstan, and some visitors, upon seeing the new prices, may choose not to visit certain restaurants.
He reminded about the operation of the consumer protection law and the existence of metrological control. A plan for inspections has already been drawn up, and inspections will be conducted in cafes and restaurants. In case of unjustified price increases or violations in gram weight, establishments may be fined.
If consumers file complaints, an unscheduled inspection will be conducted. Scheduled inspections are carried out with notification, while unscheduled ones are based on citizens' complaints,” Orozbaev added.
