Isfandiyor Sa’dullo, the new head of the Communications Service under the Government of Tajikistan, confirmed during a news conference on January 29 that Pochtai Tojik (Tajik Post), which is a division of the Communications Service, has not been sending letters and parcels to Russia for the past six months.

He attributed this to ongoing issues and disagreements between the postal services of Tajikistan and Russia.

Disputes over payments

Answering a question from Asia-Plus, Sa’dullo explained that the problems between the two postal services first arose in July 2023, and efforts are currently underway to resolve them.

According to him, the disagreements primarily concern financial settlements between the two organizations.

"I visited Pochtai Tojik and examined its operations.  There are many problems that need to be solved.  The postal services of Tajikistan and Russia are not properly coordinated.  We have already reviewed this issue, and we will find a solution to restore bilateral cooperation," he promised.

Alternative solutions for customers

Meanwhile, mail and packages from Russia to Tajikistan continue to arrive without interruption.

Due to Pochtai Tojik’s suspension, some customers have turned to the private postal company Pochtai Asr instead.

However, private services are significantly more expensive.  Thus sending  letter and 1 kg parcel by Pochtai Tojik costs 10.00 somonis and 108.00 somonis, respectively, while sending a letter and 1kg parcel by Pochtai Asr costs 220.00 somonis and 451.00 somonis, respectively.  

Delivery time: public vs. private services

Pochtai Tojik (before suspension) promised delivery to Russia in 30-50 business days.

Pochtai Asr delivers in just 5-7 days.

Interestingly, both companies use the same airline for shipments.