The universal service only works thanks to the Swiss Post system as a whole

Swiss Post is proud to meet its universal service obligation nationwide for the whole of Switzerland. This includes the delivery of letters, parcels, newspapers and magazines and the provision of payment transaction services in all parts of the country. However, this mandate dates back to a time when smartphones were not yet in widespread use. Since then, customer requirements have evolved significantly, which means there is a need for modernization. The statutory mandate also generates additional costs of around 370 million francs annually, which Swiss Post finances itself. The residual monopoly, i.e. the exclusive right to transport letters under 50 grammes, recently generated only 68 million francs for Swiss Post. At the same time, letter volumes in Switzerland are falling continuously. To maintain the universal service, Swiss Post has to cover the difference from its own resources.

For this reason, Swiss Post very much welcomes the fact that discussions are currently under way on the future of Swiss Post’s duties and their framework conditions. One thing is clear to it: modern provisions, entrepreneurial freedom and a holistic view of the Swiss Post system are needed. Individual measures that restrict the company’s purpose or limit digital services, for example, jeopardize the balance between the universal service, financing and entrepreneurial activity.

What discussions are currently under way?

Discussions on Swiss Post’s future mandate and its structure are currently being conducted via three policy instruments. Firstly, the Federal Council wants to make short-term adjustments via amendments to the Postal Services Ordinance. Secondly, the Federal Council and Parliament are working together on a revision of the Postal Services Act, with the Federal Council setting out the key points and Parliament deciding on implementation. Thirdly, Parliament provides its own impetus through parliamentary initiatives and motions , on which the Federal Council gives its position. Whereas the Federal Council aims to comprehensively modernize the universal service and Swiss Post’s business activities, specific amendments are currently being discussed by Parliament.