The "HoReCa Club" emphasizes that the hospitality industry in Kyrgyzstan is facing a critical choice: either support the people in the country or sacrifice them for populist solutions. The association calls on the government to pay attention to the real human destinies hidden behind dry economic figures. In their opinion, 15% is not just a surcharge; it is a vital element for survival in Kyrgyzstan.
The discussion on the abolition of the 15% "service charge" touches on the foundations of the entire industry's survival. Restaurateurs argue that these funds have never been "profit" for owners. "These are means of existence for 400,000 citizens of our country," the association states. In the HoReCa sector, every sixth working citizen, including cooks, waiters, and technical staff, has chosen to stay in the country rather than go abroad for work.
Social Crisis
The attempt to exclude 15% from the cost structure of restaurants, according to the association, will be a serious blow to the welfare of ordinary workers. "Either these funds are legally included in the price, or millions of families will become migrants," the "HoReCa Club" believes and shares the pricing structure of dishes:
- products and raw materials (meat, vegetables, milk) - 38-40% (prices are increasing daily);
- wages and taxes (including those same 15% that have become salaries) - 15%;
- rental payments - 7-8%;
- taxes (single tax, patents) - 4.6%;
- utilities and security - 2-2.5%;
- operating expenses (service) - 2-2.5%;
- marketing and customer acquisition - 5-6%;
- equipment maintenance (depreciation) - 1.5%;
- banking fees - 1.5%;
- other expenses (logistics, packaging, MRP) - 5%.
The total cost price is from 83% to 89%."Only 11-17% margin remains for development, loan repayment, and risk. This is a critical minimum. If the business is forced to 'give away' service or cover inflation, the industry simply will not survive," the association emphasizes.
The "HoReCa Club" reminds that the public catering sector is not just a resale of goods, but a full-fledged process of food production that adheres to strict HACCP standards and provides world-class service. In every line of the check, the efforts of farmers, logisticians, technologists, and waiters are embedded.
"We call on the government for open negotiations, not sanctions. Increasing prices on the menu is not an expression of greed, but a cry for help. This is the only way to preserve jobs and not leave 400,000 people without means of existence. We ask to recognize HoReCa as a strategically important sector and to stop unilateral pressure. We are not protecting profit, but the right of our people to live and work in their own country," the representatives of the association addressed the government.
We remind you that starting from January 1, 2026, a decree prohibiting the collection of service charges in public catering establishments, including cafes and restaurants, will come into force in Kyrgyzstan. Thus, there should be no line for "service percentage" in the checks.
