Eighty-eight postal operators from across the world have recently announced that they have suspended some or all postal services to the United States. This shocking news has left many wondering about the reason behind this decision and its impact on international parcel delivery.
According to the Universal Postal Union (UPU), these postal operators have taken this step due to the recent changes in the postal rates for small packages sent from overseas to the United States. The US withdrew from the UPU on October 17, 2019, and announced a new self-declared terminal dues system for inbound international packages weighing less than 2 kilograms.
The UPU is an international organization that coordinates postal policies among its 192 member countries. It aims to ensure the secure and efficient functioning of the global postal network and sets the rates for international mail exchange. However, the US decision to withdraw from the UPU has created a ripple effect, causing major disruptions in the international postal network.
The US decision comes after several years of complaints from the US Postal Service (USPS) regarding the discounted postal rates given to developing countries by the UPU. The USPS argued that these rates put them at a disadvantage, as it was more expensive for them to deliver packages domestically than to receive them from overseas. This has resulted in a loss of revenue for the USPS, which is already struggling financially.
As a result, the US announced a new system where it would set its own terminal dues for inbound international packages. This has caused an uproar among the international postal operators, as they fear that this move will lead to an increase in shipping rates and have an adverse effect on e-commerce businesses that rely on international shipping.
In response to the US decision, 88 postal operators from around the world have notified the UPU that they will be suspending some or all postal services to the United States. This includes countries from Europe, Asia, and Africa, among others. These suspensions will affect both mail and parcel delivery, resulting in delays and disruptions in the overall international postal network.
This move by the postal operators is a clear indication of their solidarity with the UPU and their rejection of the US decision to withdraw from the organization. It also highlights the interdependence of the postal network and the potential impact of one country’s decision on the entire system.
The UPU has expressed its concern over the suspensions and urged all parties to find a mutually agreeable solution. It has also initiated discussions with the US and other member countries to address the issue and prevent any further disruptions.
In the midst of these uncertainties, the UPU has assured the public that it is working closely with its member countries to minimize the impact of the suspensions on international postal services. It has also encouraged countries to continue their discussions and find a long-term solution that benefits all parties involved.
Despite the challenges, the UPU remains optimistic and believes that the ongoing discussions will result in a mutually beneficial outcome for all. It also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong and efficient international postal network, which is crucial for global trade and communication.
In conclusion, the recent suspensions of postal services to the United States by 88 postal operators is a clear indication of the deep-rooted impact of the US decision to withdraw from the UPU. However, the UPU remains committed to finding a solution and ensuring the smooth functioning of the international postal network. Let us hope that the ongoing discussions result in a positive resolution for all parties involved, and the global postal network can continue to thrive and serve its purpose effectively.
