Japan Post, on the verge of privatisation, is holding detailed talks with TNT and Japanesecarriers to build up an international network in Asia, Japanese and international media have
reported. The talks apparently focus on setting up joint ventures for distribution in theAsia-Pacific region.The Japanese post office has been legally prevented from international expansion in the past,leaving the international mail, express and parcel markets open to other Japanese operators andforeign companies. But Yoshiaki Hompo, Japan Post’s managing executive officer, told last week’sWorld Postal Business Forum conference that the post office aimed to enter the internationallogistics business once legal restrictions were removed.
Japan Post is reportedly in discussions with TNT, Nippon Express and Sankyu Inc, and couldconclude agreements by the end of this year. TNT would offer Japan Post a worldwide network formail, express and logistics services, while Nippon Express could act as a partner for air and seafreight. Sankyu would be able to provide domestic distribution services.
