Postal sector representatives from across the Arab region gathered in Doha for a Universal Postal Union (UPU) regional workshop focused on operational efficiency and e-commerce development. Hosted by the UPU Regional Office in partnership with Qatar’s Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) and Qatar Postal Services Company (Q-Post), the event aimed to strengthen regional co-operation and share expertise on postal innovation and risk management.
Fostering E-Commerce and Risk Management
The workshop was a key component of the UPU’s Regional Development Plan for 2022-25, specifically the Operational Efficiency and E-Commerce Development (ORE3) Project. Discussions centred on two primary themes: building the capacity of postal operators to effectively support e-commerce systems and advancing robust risk management frameworks. The goal is to ensure business continuity and provide reliable postal services capable of meeting modern challenges.
Participants reviewed the progress made in executing the ORE3 Project and explored new methods for optimising operational and risk management mechanisms within national postal companies. The event served as a platform for sharing best practices in e-commerce readiness and strengthening the postal sector’s role in the digital economy.
Technical Discussions and Project Outcomes
The agenda included several advanced technical topics. Experts addressed how to assess the impact of the ORE Project on postal service performance and the importance of integrating digital and financial systems to facilitate cross-border operations. Sessions also covered improving monitoring and evaluation using UPU tools such as the Global Monitoring System and the Integrated Quality of Service Reporting System.
The ORE Project itself focused on improving operational efficiency in postal supply chains, streamlining customs clearance, and reinforcing collaboration between postal, customs, and logistics entities. These efforts are designed to ensure the provision of prompt, secure, and reliable services to customers across the region.
A Springboard for Future Strategy
Held ahead of the next UPU strategy cycle (2026-2029), the workshop marked a concluding step for the current ORE Project. It provided an opportunity to review the outcomes and lessons learned during its implementation. This final workshop also acted as a launchpad for a new project, with discussions laying the groundwork for a new regional action plan for the upcoming cycle.
The outcomes of these discussions are expected to contribute significantly to enhancing postal and digital integration throughout the Arab world. By modernising their infrastructure and processes, regional postal services aim to play a pivotal role in the continued development of e-commerce and the broader digital economy.
