Russia halts Pakistan Post services over unpaid dues

ISLAMABAD: Russia has suspended all Pakistan Post international mail services after the department failed to clear Rs 55 million in outstanding dues, Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan informed the National Assembly in a written reply.

According to the minister, Russian Post enforced the ban in August 2025, formally notifying Pakistan of the suspension. The dues in question have remained unpaid since 2021, despite multiple reminders from the Russian side.

The minister further disclosed that Pakistan Post’s financial challenges are not limited to Russia alone. As of November 12, 2021, the organization faces over Rs 310 million in total international liabilities, a figure that reflects years of institutional deficits and operational strain.

Abdul Aleem Khan said that Pakistan Post intends to settle the Russian dues as soon as the Finance Division releases the required funds. Once the payments are made, Pakistan will request Russia to lift the ban and restore the exchange of international mail.

The suspension has disrupted postal services for individuals, businesses, and academic institutions that rely on mail correspondence between the two countries. Officials warn that continued delays could further erode Pakistan Post’s credibility with other international postal operators.

The minister assured parliament that efforts are underway to stabilise the department’s finances and avoid similar disruptions in the future.