Postal network as enabler for e-commerce and trade facilitation (UPU) -UPU TradePost Forum
6 Dec 2023 11:30h - 13:00h UTC
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Masahiko Metoki
National postal networks play a crucial role in providing access to e-commerce and trade networks for various groups, including MSMEs, women, and underserved communities. These networks are considered an essential element of public infrastructure, supporting social, financial, digital, and trade inclusion. They enable businesses and individuals in these communities to participate in economic activities and expand their reach.
The Trade Post programme aims to further enhance the economic returns for MSMEs and women by utilising postal networks to facilitate access to digital trade. By embracing digital technologies and enabling online trade, postal networks can unlock new market potentials and create additional opportunities for these groups. This initiative recognises the importance of empowering governments and their postal services to promote economic growth and decent work.
The Universal Postal Union (UPU) is actively committed to collaborating with governments and other partners to enhance the skills and digital capabilities of postal workers. This commitment aligns with the UPU’s goal of ensuring the continued relevance and accessibility of postal services. By prioritising skill enhancement and digital capabilities, the UPU aims to create a workforce that can effectively contribute to the development of an inclusive and accessible postal network.
Part of the UPU’s approach also involves building an effective e-commerce ecosystem. This recognises the importance of a comprehensive framework that supports the growth of online businesses and ensures a seamless experience for both businesses and consumers. By focusing on developing an e-commerce ecosystem, the UPU aims to strengthen the role of postal networks in facilitating digital trade and promoting economic opportunities for all.
In conclusion, national postal networks serve as vital conduits for e-commerce and trade, enabling MSMEs, women, and underserved communities to participate in economic activities. Initiatives like the Trade Post programme and the UPU’s commitment to enhancing skills and digital capabilities further reinforce the contributions that these networks can make. By working together, governments, postal services, and partners can create an inclusive and accessible postal system that promotes economic growth and the achievement of various Sustainable Development Goals.
Paul Donohoe
The Universal Postal Union (UPU) is dedicated to promoting trade facilitation for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), women-led businesses, and underserved communities. This commitment aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 and 5, which prioritize decent work and economic growth and gender equality.
To achieve this objective, the UPU advocates for partnerships between the private sector, public networks, and governments. These partnerships empower and enable the postal sector to effectively facilitate trade for the target groups. Currently, 68% of UPU members have integrated trade facilitation for MSMEs, women-led businesses, and underserved communities into their corporate vision. This indicates strong commitment towards inclusive trade.
While progress has been made in trade facilitation, certain areas still require improvement. Logistics and transport services, especially in the last mile, need enhancement to better support trade activities. Additionally, the workforce needs to be empowered to meet the needs of MSMEs. The neglect of the postal sector in implementing single windows and trade information portals is another area requiring attention.
The UPU plays a crucial role in enhancing trade inclusion. It employs knowledge and research to inform policy and advises decision-makers on effective trade facilitation measures. Additionally, the UPU provides technical assistance and capacity building programs to enhance policy development and implementation. Its tools include the UPU Convention, various regulations and standards, capacity building activities, postal technology solutions, and data monitoring and measuring systems.
The UPU introduced the Trade Post Program, empowering national postal operators with the tools and capabilities to support MSMEs. This program has successfully simplified and made export and import processes more accessible for MSMEs and women, helping local producers transition from individual producers to e-commerce exporters. Tunisia is a particularly successful example where local producers have experienced significant export growth facilitated through post offices.
Another important objective of the UPU is to enhance the digitalization of trade transactions through the post office and promote interoperability in supply chains. By integrating postal services with customs and other transport agencies, the UPU aims to increase the number of MSMEs that can export through the post office. This digitalization and interoperability streamline trade processes and provide opportunities for smaller businesses to participate in global trade.
Post offices also play a vital role in validating identities and improving trust in transactions. Many countries issue government licenses and passports through post offices, providing reliable methods of identity validation. This enhances trust and confidence in trade transactions, particularly for underserved populations that may lack access to traditional forms of identification.
In conclusion, the UPU’s commitment to trade facilitation for MSMEs, women-led businesses, and underserved communities is clear. Through partnerships, knowledge sharing, technical assistance, and capacity building, the UPU aims to empower the postal sector to effectively facilitate trade. Although improvements are needed in logistics, transport services, access to information, and workforce empowerment, the UPU’s initiatives, such as the Trade Post Program and digitalization of trade transactions, show promising outcomes. Furthermore, the role of post offices in validating identities and enhancing trust in transactions highlights their significance in promoting inclusive and secure trade.
Pedro Moreno
Postal services play a critical role in facilitating international trade and e-commerce, serving as the backbone of efficient and reliable delivery systems. They connect millions of businesses worldwide, enabling cross-border transactions and expanding their global customer base. The role of postal services in supporting e-commerce and digital trade is crucial.
However, this area also faces various challenges that need to be addressed for its continued growth and success. The rapid expansion of e-commerce has introduced new and complex challenges, such as customs procedures, tariffs, and the integration of digital and physical aspects of trade. These challenges can impede the smooth flow of goods and services, create trade barriers, and affect the overall efficiency of the e-commerce ecosystem.
Recognizing the importance of overcoming these challenges, the Universal Postal Union (UPU) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) have formed a partnership to actively tackle them. Through collaboration, they have developed initiatives such as E-Trade for All, aimed at resolving e-commerce logistics issues and improving countries’ readiness to participate in and benefit from digital trade. This partnership is instrumental in shaping the future of the digital economy and promoting inclusive and sustainable growth.
One notable example of successful collaboration between UPU and UNCTAD is the Trade Post Forum. This forum serves as a platform for discussions on the future of postal services in evolving trade landscapes. It facilitates dialogue between policymakers, industry leaders, and other key stakeholders. The Trade Post Forum encourages the exchange of ideas, sharing of best practices, and addressing emerging challenges and opportunities. It plays a pivotal role in initiating conversations and shaping policies to ensure the continued relevance and efficacy of postal services in a changing trade landscape.
In summary, postal services are indispensable for facilitating e-commerce and digital trade, connecting businesses and enabling cross-border transactions. Although challenges exist in this domain, partnerships like that between UPU and UNCTAD, along with initiatives like E-Trade for All, are driving efforts to overcome these challenges and shape the future of the digital economy. The Trade Post Forum provides a vital platform for discussions on the future of postal services in evolving trade landscapes, allowing stakeholders to collaborate and find innovative solutions. By addressing these challenges and fostering collaboration, postal services will continue to play a pivotal role in supporting global trade and economic development.
William Gain
The World Bank Group plays an active role in trade, trade logistics, and trade facilitation worldwide. They place particular emphasis on digitization, digitalization, and e-commerce, working in collaboration with postal networks, logistics providers, and both the public and private sectors. The success of the postal logistics supply chain depends on the adoption of standards, which are considered critical. By implementing global standards, the risks associated with the movement of goods across borders can be effectively managed.
Inclusivity is another important aspect in the movement of goods across borders, with a focus on gender equality and access to markets. The World Bank has identified constraints and gaps in trade-related information and benefits for women traders in small island developing states and other developing countries.
The integration of postal services into public and private sector dialogues is seen as a crucial strategy for facilitating cross-border trade. Postal operators can operate as both public and private sector entities, which enables them to garner support and financing. The seamless movement of goods across borders heavily relies on the involvement of postal services.
Furthermore, there is a need for an emergency preparedness and response framework for the movement of critical items, especially in small developing countries. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of efficient logistics in the importation of vaccines in Pacific Islands. Stakeholders from various sectors had to come together to ensure the smooth transportation of critical items.
The postal service also presents an opportunity for connection, particularly in emergency response and early warning systems. As a significant portion of the global population is without internet access or mobile phones, the postal service can play a vital role in providing connectivity and disseminating information during emergencies.
The existing postal infrastructure holds great potential for repurposing it for various purposes. COVID-19 has brought different sectors, such as the Ministry of Health, into trade facilitation committees. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce is driving innovation and presenting an opportunity to involve postal authorities in trade dialogues.
The integrated model of a national single window, which incorporates all related border agencies, is crucial for effective trade facilitation. Integration of the latest technology is essential for integrating legacy systems.
The World Bank Group offers various financial instruments for member countries to access based on the specific context and income level of the country. Support for investment in postal network infrastructure is sought, whether it is part of the government or wholly owned by the private sector, with different financial approaches.
In conclusion, the World Bank Group’s involvement in trade, trade logistics, and trade facilitation is driven by the goal of achieving economic growth and partnerships for sustainable development. By implementing standards, ensuring inclusivity, integrating postal services, and establishing emergency response frameworks, the movement of goods across borders can be streamlined and risks can be effectively managed. The utilization of existing postal infrastructure and investment in postal network infrastructure are important for improving trade facilitation and connectivity worldwide.
José SÁNCHEZ-FUNG
The Universal Postal Union (UPU) has been functioning since 1874 to combat a market failure caused by the challenges in delivering postal services globally. Research shows that the efficiency of a government can be assessed by understanding the state of postal services in a given economy. Postal services are considered critical to society’s progress and economic development.
The World Trade Organization (WTO) plays a pivotal role in facilitating the operation of postal networks, particularly in the context of e-commerce and trade. The WTO focuses on development and its relationship with other multilateral agencies, including the wider United Nations (UN) system. The Committee on Trade and Development, a part of the WTO, is mandated to examine and report on the development implications of e-commerce. This demonstrates the importance given by the WTO to incorporating the development aspect in facilitating global trade.
Within the WTO, there is a focus on working towards an enabling environment for e-commerce and trade facilitation. Discussions aim to ensure that developing countries can participate in the global economy through trade facilitation and digital transformation. The WTO has implemented a moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions to facilitate e-commerce.
There are potential synergies between the work of the WTO and the UPU, although there is no direct linkage between the WTO’s Subcommittee on Least Developed Countries and postal services. Nevertheless, discussion topics such as trade facilitation and e-commerce are being addressed, which can have an impact on the development and operation of postal services.
The quality of the postal service is not only essential for efficient global communications but also serves as an indicator of subsequent growth and development. However, there have been historic underdevelopments of postal services, which create credibility hurdles that need to be addressed.
Postal services cannot be seen in isolation from broader economic and institutional reforms. Including postal services development in institutional reforms can lead to sustainable economic growth, highlighting the interconnectedness between these elements.
The WTO’s work on e-commerce began as early as 1998, underscoring its long-standing focus on this area. Several committees within the WTO are involved in addressing issues related to e-commerce.
The Committee on Trade and Development strives to enhance developing countries’ participation in global e-commerce trade. This includes studying ways to increase their involvement and focusing on market access components that can enhance their participation. Capacity building and market access measures are also emphasized, particularly for the least developed countries.
In conclusion, the UPU and the WTO play crucial roles in facilitating postal services and global trade, respectively. The UPU tackles market failure in delivering postal services globally, while the WTO focuses on promoting development and facilitating trade through e-commerce and other means. The synergy between these two organizations can further strengthen the effectiveness of postal networks and foster sustainable economic growth.
Siva Somasundram
The analysis examines the role of the postal network in international trade and trade inclusion, highlighting both positive and negative aspects. It begins by acknowledging the transformative impact of digitalisation on global e-commerce, automating processes and making international trade more accessible to businesses and citizens. This is seen as a positive development as it streamlines transactions and facilitates cross-border parcels and packets, ultimately boosting economic growth and job opportunities. The postal network is identified as a critical player in this process, as it plays a vital role in enabling the smooth flow of goods and services.
However, the analysis also acknowledges significant barriers to international trade that disproportionately affect SMEs, women, and underserved communities. These barriers hinder their access to global markets and economic opportunities. It emphasises the need for effective policy, operational, and regulatory measures that facilitate trade and alleviate the burden on these marginalised segments of the population. In this regard, it argues that more efforts are required to optimise the role of the postal network in facilitating international trade and promoting trade inclusion.
Furthermore, the analysis highlights the positive relationship between postal sector development and economic growth. The EUPU State of the Postal Sector Report for 2022 confirms this correlation, indicating that countries with more developed postal sectors tend to be more resilient in challenging economic times. However, it notes that many developing countries struggle to attract the necessary investments for infrastructure and improvement in their postal services. This lack of investment hampers the growth and effectiveness of the postal network in these regions. Thus, it suggests that governments in developing countries should increase their focus on investing in postal services to tap into their potential for economic development.
To address these issues and enhance the role of the postal network, the analysis recommends changing the narrative in discussions at the WTO Committee on Trade and Development. It asserts that postal services should be given greater importance and attention, and their potential to facilitate trade, especially in developing countries, should be acknowledged. Additionally, the promotion of interoperability and connection between postal operators and other market players is deemed vital for providing customers and citizens with a seamless e-commerce experience. The analysis also highlights the need to create an interface between different segments with varying standards to ensure compatibility and efficiency.
The analysis further underlines the importance of integrating postal operators into existing trade facilitation and customs processes, as their inclusion has proved vital in recent projects such as COVID vaccine importation in the Pacific Island countries. This integration enhances the overall efficiency and effectiveness of trade facilitation and customs procedures. Moreover, it suggests exploring the potential of the postal system in emergency response systems like the ‘Early Warnings for All’ initiative, as a considerable portion of the global population lacks access to internet/mobile networks, making the postal system a crucial linking mechanism.
Lastly, the analysis emphasises the need for better understanding and utilisation of existing postal infrastructure by governments. It advocates for repurposing the postal system to fulfil various governmental purposes and leveraging its potential to meet modern demands. The underutilisation of existing postal infrastructure is seen as a missed opportunity that requires collaborative efforts between public and private actors to rectify.
In conclusion, the analysis highlights various aspects of the postal network’s role in international trade and trade inclusion. While digitalisation has revolutionised global e-commerce and improved accessibility to international trade, significant barriers still exist, particularly for SMEs, women, and underserved communities. Efforts are needed to optimise the role of the postal network, enhance investment in postal services, and promote trade inclusion. The positive relationship between postal sector development and economic growth underscores the need for greater focus and investment in this sector. Overall, the analysis suggests that addressing these issues and maximising the potential of the postal network can contribute to sustainable economic development and better trade opportunities for all.
Maria Teresa Pisani
UNCFACT, the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business, aims to develop simple and effective processes for global businesses. It focuses on making trade easier and faster, particularly for disadvantaged and small actors. Despite being serviced by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, UNCFACT has managed to attract approximately 1,500 experts globally, reflecting its commitment to trade facilitation.
An important achievement of UNCFACT is the development of a digitalisation package for multimodal transport data sharing. This package includes standards for various forms of transport, such as rail, maritime, inland water, and air. To support implementation, UNCFACT has created a learning platform for training and capacity building. This demonstrates their dedication to equipping businesses with the necessary knowledge and skills for adopting digital solutions in transportation.
The need for sustainable and digital trade facilitation measures is urgent, especially in transitioning economies and developing nations. UNCFACT recognizes this and emphasizes the importance of providing technical assistance and support to these countries. They also focus on empowering women-led businesses and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to fully harness the benefits of digital trade and international standards. By addressing these needs, UNCFACT promotes inclusivity and ensures that no one is left behind.
UNCFACT plays a crucial role in supporting the postal industry. Their UN EDIFACT standard, developed in the 1990s, has been instrumental in UPU’s International Mail Processing. The UN Law Code, a key component of UN EDIFACT, is widely used in this context. UNCFACT has also launched a project for parcel goods traceability in last-mile delivery to enhance postal service efficiency and reliability.
Fragmentation and lack of interoperability between different information exchange systems pose a challenge in trade facilitation and electronic business. UNCFACT recognizes this and advocates for creating an interface to overcome these issues and establish interoperability. They stress the importance of international standards to ensure smooth communication and collaboration between stakeholders and technologies.
UNCFACT emphasizes the importance of harnessing advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) for trade facilitation. They study papers and reports and map out specific use cases and available standards to leverage these technologies and enhance the efficiency, transparency, and security of global trade.
International standards and interoperability are crucial for global trade. UNCFACT highlights the need for harmonized standards to ensure smooth cross-border transactions. They specifically mention the importance of interoperability standards in the face of multiple blockchain systems.
UNCFACT covers Africa through the Economic Commission for Africa, producing a specific report for the region. This shows their commitment to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities of African nations in trade facilitation and digitalization.
In conclusion, UNCFACT’s work plays a vital role in promoting global trade facilitation and digitalization. Their focus on developing effective processes, providing technical assistance, supporting the postal industry, advocating for international standards and interoperability, and leveraging advanced technologies reflects their commitment to driving inclusive and sustainable global trade. UNCFACT’s initiatives contribute to making trade easier, faster, and more accessible for all.
Audience
The analysis highlights several important points regarding data exchange, interoperability, and the role of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in trade.
Firstly, it is argued that automated application programming interfaces (APIs) have the potential to greatly enhance data exchange and interoperability. APIs are small programs that enable the exchange of data between different systems. This is considered a key element in promoting interoperability. The analysis suggests that by implementing automated APIs based on a library, the process of data exchange and interoperability can be facilitated.
In addition, the analysis suggests that virtual credentials, such as those based on blockchain technology, can ensure the reliability of data. Virtual credentials utilise technologies such as blockchain to establish trust and authenticity. It is highlighted that the presence of a ‘Trust Anchor’ is crucial in virtual credentials, which links back to an entity providing trust in the credential. This ensures the reliability of the data associated with the credentials.
Furthermore, the analysis suggests that the UPU has the potential to act as a Trust Anchor in the use of virtual credentials in trade. By leveraging its position, the UPU could provide trust and security in the exchange of virtual credentials, enhancing trade processes. The analysis suggests that the UPU should explore opportunities to become a trusted entity in the utilisation of virtual credentials, particularly in the context of trade.
The analysis also emphasises the importance of developing countries strengthening their integration of digital commerce through the postal network. It is argued that integrating digital commerce into the postal network would benefit developing countries by providing increased accessibility and opportunities for trade. The development of digital commerce through the postal network could contribute to economic growth and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.
Furthermore, the World Bank is encouraged to provide financial support to the postal network due to its considerable density. It is noted that whilst the Bank of Manila encompasses various sectors, the postal sector is often overlooked. Therefore, the analysis suggests that the World Bank should shift its focus and allocate financial resources to support the postal network. This support could enable the postal network to play a significant role in financial inclusion and the growth of e-commerce.
Lastly, it is suggested that the UPU should leverage its large logistics delivery network to improve trade access for businesses of all sizes. The analysis highlights that the UPU possesses a substantial logistics delivery network, which can be utilised to enhance trade accessibility for small, medium, and large companies. By leveraging this network, the UPU has the potential to facilitate trade and contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.
In conclusion, the analysis underscores the potential of automated APIs in improving data exchange and interoperability. It highlights the importance of virtual credentials in ensuring data reliability and suggests that the UPU could act as a Trust Anchor in virtual credential usage in trade. The analysis also emphasises the need for developing countries to integrate digital commerce through the postal network, and encourages the World Bank to provide financial support to the postal network. Moreover, it suggests that the UPU should leverage its logistics delivery network to improve trade access for businesses of all sizes. Overall, the analysis provides valuable insights into enhancing data exchange, trade, and the role of the UPU in facilitating global connectivity.
Isaac GNAMBA-YAO
Upon analysing the given information, several key points presented by the speakers become apparent. Firstly, there is a positive sentiment towards promoting trade facilitation for micro, small, and medium enterprises. It is highlighted that 53.3% of national initiatives have been issued to support this cause. This reflects the recognition of the importance of facilitating and supporting the growth of these businesses, in order to foster economic development and achieve the goals of decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) and industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9). The presence of such initiatives indicates the commitment of various countries to creating an enabling environment for these enterprises, which are often drivers of economic growth and job creation.
Secondly, the significance of postal operators in contributing to economic development is emphasised in the discussions. The increasing number of dialogues on this subject implies a recognition of the crucial role played by postal operators. These operators not only facilitate the flow of mail and parcels but also contribute to the overall economic dynamic of countries. Their involvement in economic development can be seen in various areas such as logistics, e-commerce, and trade facilitation. This suggests that postal operators have the potential to drive economic growth and should be given due attention and support.
Furthermore, a neutral stance is taken regarding Africa’s representation in the statistics, with a request for clarification. In the presentation by Mrs. Pisani, it is mentioned that the speaker did not observe any mention of Africa or developing countries. This raises questions about the representation of African countries and other developing nations in the data and statistics presented. It suggests a need for further examination and clarification to ensure inclusive and representative statistics that encompass a global perspective.
Lastly, a neutral inquiry is made about the integration of postal references in international trade rules. The absence of supporting facts in this regard implies a lack of sufficient information available on the current integration of postal references in international trade rules. This raises curiosity about the extent to which postal references have been incorporated and recognised in the context of international trade. The inquiry signifies an interest in understanding the role of postal services in international trade and the potential for their greater integration and recognition in trade regulations and policies.
In conclusion, the analysis highlights the positive sentiment towards promoting trade facilitation for micro, small, and medium enterprises, as well as the importance of postal operators in contributing to economic development. It also notes the neutral stance regarding Africa’s representation in the statistics and raises an inquiry about the integration of postal references in international trade rules. These insights provide valuable information for policymakers and stakeholders in shaping policies and strategies to promote economic growth, trade facilitation, and inclusive representation in relevant sectors.
Ibrahim Kalil Konaté
The Ivory Coast, also known as Côte d’Ivoire, is taking significant steps to integrate logistical and financial services with the aim of supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening their access to global markets and competitiveness. This development comes as part of efforts towards digital transformation in the country’s economy.
One of the notable initiatives is the deployment of the platform sansleshock.ci, which serves as a means for artisans and entrepreneurs to promote and sell their products globally. This initiative not only provides training and resources but also appreciates the utility and efficiency of the universal postal service in facilitating trade and development.
Furthermore, it is recognized that the Universal Postal Service plays a crucial role in ensuring fair access to quality services for all, thereby contributing to the reduction of inequalities. The impact of postal service infrastructure on global trade and development is emphasized, as it promotes communication, exchange, and connectivity worldwide.
Moreover, the Ivory Coast has embarked on important efforts to accelerate the digital transformation of its economy. This transformation is being spearheaded by His Excellency Mr. Alassane Ouattara, President of the Republic of Ivory Coast. The Ivory Coast Post, under this digital transformation initiative, has undertaken various measures to leverage digital technology effectively.
Collaboration with key global organizations is seen as essential for the successful digital transformation of Côte d’Ivoire. Collaborative efforts with the Universal Postal Union, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, the World Trade Organization, and the World Bank are being pursued to foster digital transformation and enhance the country’s participation in the global economy.
In conclusion, Ivory Coast’s integration of logistical and financial services, along with its focus on digital transformation, is vital for supporting entrepreneurs, expanding access to global markets, and enhancing competitiveness. The platform sansleshock.ci is empowering artisans and entrepreneurs to promote and sell their products globally. Additionally, the Universal Postal Service plays a crucial role in ensuring fair access to quality services for everyone. Collaboration with global organizations is viewed as essential for the success of the country’s digital transformation journey.
Speakers
A
Audience
Speech speed
160 words per minute
Speech length
548 words
Speech time
205 secs
IK
Ibrahim Kalil Konaté
Speech speed
114 words per minute
Speech length
373 words
Speech time
197 secs
IG
Isaac GNAMBA-YAO
Speech speed
129 words per minute
Speech length
255 words
Speech time
119 secs
JS
José SÁNCHEZ-FUNG
Speech speed
128 words per minute
Speech length
1571 words
Speech time
736 secs
MT
Maria Teresa Pisani
Speech speed
124 words per minute
Speech length
2084 words
Speech time
1006 secs
MM
Masahiko Metoki
Speech speed
104 words per minute
Speech length
495 words
Speech time
287 secs
PD
Paul Donohoe
Speech speed
164 words per minute
Speech length
2305 words
Speech time
843 secs
PM
Pedro Moreno
Speech speed
146 words per minute
Speech length
492 words
Speech time
203 secs
SS
Siva Somasundram
Speech speed
162 words per minute
Speech length
2843 words
Speech time
1054 secs
WG
William Gain
Speech speed
160 words per minute
Speech length
2146 words
Speech time
805 secs
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