Hong Kong to raise postage rates from April 13 amid surging oil prices

Hong Kong will raise its postage rates next month amid surging oil prices triggered by the conflict in the Middle East, with the cost of posting local letters increasing by 9 per cent to HK$2.40 (31 US cents).Hongkong Post on Monday said that the new rates would come into effect from April 13, highlighting the need to adjust postage rates to offset escalating operating costs, particularly increases in major cost components such as conveyance costs and terminal dues payments.“Overall, the postage increases for over 90 per cent of local mail and surface mail will be within HK$0.20, while those for 90 per cent of airmail will be within HK$0.50,” a spokesman said. “The expected impact on both the general public and the commercial sectors is considered to be very mild.”The operator also said the adjustments were broadly in line with cumulative inflation since the last increase in September 2022 up to January this year.Under the new rates, the cost of posting a local letter weighing 30 grams (1.06 ounces) or less will be raised from the existing HK$2.20 to HK$2.40.The cost of airmail weighing 20 grams or less to mainland China and Taiwan will also increase from HK$3.70 to HK$3.90, while those to other places will be adjusted from HK$4-HK$5.5 to HK$4.20-HK$5.80.