(KPL) The Ministry of Technology and Communications has identified regional connectivity, digital infrastructure and inclusive access as its three strategic priorities for 2026–2030.

The plans include leveraging the Lao-China Railway, economic corridors and dry ports to improve regional postal connectivity, while developing a national digital addressing system, parcel-tracking services and data exchanges with customs systems to modernize delivery operations.

The ministry also aims to expand secure, convenient and high-quality postal services to communities across the country.

The Minister said the postal sector plays an increasingly important role in communication, trade and e-commerce as it moves beyond traditional letter and parcel delivery to support broader economic activities.

The Lao postal sector has expanded significantly in recent years. By 2025, the number of postal operators had increased from 32 to 65, while the nationwide network had grown to 3,449 service points covering all districts in the country’s 18 provinces.

Parcel volumes reached 17.52 million items, generating revenue of 316.44 billion kip. The country’s Universal Postal Development (UPDD) score also rose from 35.4 points in 2023 to 49.3 points in 2025.

This year’s World Post Day marks the anniversary of the establishment of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) on October 9, 1874. The 2026 theme, “One Postal Network, Infinite Possibilities,” highlights the postal sector’s evolving role in connecting people, businesses and markets.

Prof. Dr. Santisouk Simmalavong expressed appreciation to postal operators, officials and workers for their contributions and called on all stakeholders to work together to improve services and create new opportunities for citizens and businesses.

He said continued modernization and cooperation would help strengthen the postal sector’s contribution to the country’s socio-economic development.

KPL