MARGAO: Small entrepreneurs and restaurant owners across Goa have expressed anger over the latest hike in commercial LPG cylinder prices, saying it will further strain businesses already facing rising operational costs.
Owners of restaurants, tea stalls, bakeries and catering units said repeated increases in cooking gas prices are affecting daily operations and shrinking profit margins.
Restaurant operator Pradeep Naik from Margao said, “Every few months there is another increase. Gas is essential for our business and we cannot function without it. But customers also cannot afford frequent price hikes in food items.”
Another owner, Melwyn Fernandes from Borda, said, “Commercial LPG is becoming too expensive for small hotels and eateries. We are already operating on limited margins and these hikes only add pressure on us.”
Suzana D’Sa, who runs a small eatery in Fatorda, said, “We are trying hard to maintain food quality and affordable rates, but expenses are rising from every side. The government should think about small business owners who de-pend on daily earnings.”
Entrepreneurs said commercial LPG is essential for food businesses and alternatives are limited. Many noted that while costs continue to rise, increasing menu prices is not always feasible as it could drive away customers.
They have urged the government to consider subsidies or relief measures for small businesses dependent on LPG. Some warned that continued price hikes could force eateries and roadside stalls to scale down operations or pass on the burden to consumers.
Business owners called for immediate steps to stabilise LPG prices and sup-port small entrepreneurs, who they said form a key part of Goa’s local economy.
Commercial LPG price rise adds to burden on small businesses
