In the new phase of China's private economic development, the private courier sector has completed a remarkable thirty-year journey, emerging as the dominant force in the logistics industry. Latest statistics reveal that private couriers now command over 90% of market share—a growth trajectory inextricably linked to national policy support for private enterprises. The recent draft of the "Private Economy Promotion Law" has further cemented this position by enshrining equal treatment principles and strengthening development opportunities.
The industry's early days presented formidable challenges. When China's first private courier company launched in 1993, these operators were often stigmatized as "black express" services until legal recognition came through the 2009 Postal Law revision. Through relentless innovation and adaptable business models, private couriers capitalized on e-commerce expansion to achieve their breakthrough. Market reforms and big data technologies subsequently enabled network optimization and digital transformation, driving record-breaking parcel volumes.
Data from the State Post Bureau shows annual parcel volume surpassing 100 billion in 2024, with projections indicating sustained 12% growth. Private operators have made significant strides in service quality and technological innovation, even as market competition intensifies with new entrants.
China Post, as the state-owned incumbent carrying universal service obligations, maintains advantages in financing and policy support but struggles with profitability in its courier division. Its sustainability hinges on government subsidies and operational innovation, including infrastructure upgrades and new service exploration.
Notably, beyond competition lies potential collaboration—particularly in rural logistics and rural revitalization initiatives where complementary strengths could foster healthier market development.
Looking ahead, private couriers will deepen their focus on technological innovation and market expansion, particularly in digitalization and smart logistics. With continued policy backing and market evolution, their role in China's logistics ecosystem appears increasingly indispensable.
Over three transformative decades, China's private courier industry has evolved from marginal player to market leader through sheer determination and innovation. While uncertainties persist, these hard-won achievements provide both foundation and compass for the journey ahead.
