Japan Ministry considers postal service reforms amid deficits

Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has initiated deliberations to ensure the stable and sustainable operation of the nation's postal services. The move comes as the postal business faces consecutive years of deficits, driven by a decline in traditional mail and New Year's cards due to the widespread use of social media.

The discussions, expected to conclude around summer 2027, will explore several measures to address the financial challenges. These include potential reductions in the number of mailboxes, decreases in delivery frequency, and adjustments to postal rates. The ministry aims to balance the maintenance of essential regional infrastructure with evolving user needs.

Under current laws, municipalities are required to have at least one post office, and approximately 180,000 mailboxes must be maintained nationwide. The ministry will consult with experts and reference international models to determine how to modernize the network while strengthening the role of post offices in providing regional life-support services.