In today’s rapidly evolving trade environment, operational readiness is no longer a technical back-office concern. For postal operators navigating surging cross-border e-commerce, increasingly complex regulations and ever-higher customer expectations, the ability to deliver efficiently, reliably and transparently is essential to remaining competitive.
Over the past decade, digitalization has enabled micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to reach customers across borders, while customs procedures have become more data-driven and security requirements more stringent. Consumers now expect faster delivery, real-time tracking and seamless returns. In this environment, operational readiness – the ability of postal networks to comply with international standards while ensuring smooth end-to-end delivery – has become essential for participating in global e‑commerce.
The UPU’s operational readiness for e-commerce (ORE) programme has helped designated operators adapt to these changes. Through ORE 3, implemented during the 2022–2025 Abidjan cycle, operators improved delivery performance, accelerated customs clearance and strengthened compliance with electronic advance data (EAD) requirements. These achievements demonstrated that targeted operational improvements can deliver measurable impact. (....)