Key practical points:
• The state guarantees a universal postal service at reasonable prices, while express-delivery services are opened to competition under licence.
• Operating a courier company requires an express-delivery business licence.
• Correspondence secrecy is protected, and mail may be opened or withheld only under law and formal procedures.
• The law requires an item-inspection system and bans sending dangerous or prohibited materials, with sender identity verification for parcels.
• It defines the postal operator's liability for delay, loss, or damage to parcels and the compensation rules.
• Violations include unlicensed operation and breach of correspondence secrecy, leading to fines, licence withdrawal, and legal liability.
🏢 Company setup
Postal Law · Yalla China
中华人民共和国邮政法 / Postal Law of the People's Republic of China
Enacted: 2009-04-24 ✅ Effective: 2015-04-24
📝 Overview
A law governing universal postal services and courier (express delivery) services, protection of correspondence secrecy, and users' rights. It defines the universal postal service and licensing of express companies.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
E-commerce and courier firms must hold an express-delivery licence and follow item inspection and real-name registration. Compensation for lost parcels follows set rules. This is general orientation, not legal advice.
📎 Official source
npc.gov.cn
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026