Tribune News Network

Doha

The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has launched a public consultation on the newly drafted Postal Services Regulation. This is in line with its mission to support a transparent and competitive postal market.

This draft regulation has been designed to provide clarity on the various roles and responsibilities of postal Service Providers in the State of Qatar. It is now open for comments and feedback from stakeholders and other interested parties. This consultation period will close on October 24, 2024.

The draft Postal Services Regulation addresses the categories of services that will be available in the State of Qatar, which include both Universal Services and Exclusive Services. This new regulatory framework not only outlines the responsibilities of the Public Postal Operator, but it also clarifies the licensing requirements for both domestic and international courier services.

The new framework also ensures that Service Providers understand their roles within the postal sector and adhere to standards laid down by CRA in accordance with the Postal Services Regulation Law No. (15) of 2023.

The new draft regulation will provide clear distinction between Universal Services and Exclusive Services. This regulation will support in defining services that are open for competition and those that are exclusively provided by the Public Postal Operator, ensuring a balanced postal ecosystem that benefits both consumers and Service Providers.

The new regulation also highlights the necessity for all existing postal Service Providers to apply for the appropriate licenses under the newly categorized services. These changes will set clear standards of service, and promote transparency and consistency in the sector, which in turn will benefit businesses and consumers alike.

This consultation ensures that all stakeholders are given the opportunity to share their views on the regulation. Stakeholders input is significantly critical in building a framework that will foster competition, protect consumer rights, and promote efficiency across the sector.

This is part of CRA’s commitment to establishing a postal market that aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Digital Agenda 2030, making certain that reliable services for all consumers are provided, while upholding fair market practices.

CRA invites all interested parties and stakeholders to submit their comments and feedback on the draft regulation via email to postalinfo@cra.gov.qa before the consultation period ends on Thursday, October 24, 2024.

The draft Postal Services Regulation and the consultation guidelines are available on CRA’s website via the link: https://www.cra.gov.qa/en/document/public-consultation---postal-services-regulations