The South African Post Office (SAPO) is calling on the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (Icasa) to penalise courier companies that deliver packages weighing less than one kilogram and to direct the fines to SAPO itself.
SAPO maintains that such deliveries breach regulations granting it exclusive rights to handle small parcels under the Postal Services Act of 1998. The request forms part of a long standing dispute between SAPO and several private courier firms, including Takealot, PostNet and members of the South African Express Parcels Association.
The conflict dates back to 2018 when SAPO first lodged a complaint with Icasa, accusing private couriers of infringing on its legal monopoly. Icasa ruled in SAPO’s favour the following year, ordering PostNet to halt the delivery of small parcels within 90 days. PostNet appealed the decision, later joined by Takealot and other industry players.
SAPO’s business rescue practitioners, Anoosh Rooplal and Juanito Damons, have since urged Icasa to enforce penalties against companies continuing to deliver light parcels, suggesting that the collected funds be ringfenced for SAPO’s use.
In August 2025, SAPO submitted new court documents as the legal battle continues. The other parties involved have until December 2025 to respond.
The outcome of the case will determine whether SAPO retains its monopoly over parcels under one kilogram or if private couriers will be allowed to continue offering those services.
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