The primary object of this Act is to provide for the regulation and control of postal services in the public interest and for that purpose to–
| a) | promote the universal and affordable provision of postal services; |
| b) | promote the provision of a wide range of postal services in the interest of the economic growth and development of the Republic; |
| c) | make progress towards the universal provision of postal services; |
| d) | encourage investment and innovation in the postal industry; |
| e) | promote the development of postal services that are responsive to the needs of users and consumers; |
| f) | ensure greater access to basic services through the achievement of universal postal service, by providing an acceptable level of effective and regular postal services to all areas including rural areas and small towns where post offices are not sustainable; |
| g) | develop greater equity in respect of the distribution of services, particularly within the areas of the historically disadvantaged communities, including rural areas; |
| h) | ensure that the needs of disabled persons are taken into account in the provision of postal services; |
| i) | encourage the development of human resources and capacity building within the postal industry, especially amongst historically disadvantaged groups; |
| j) | ensure fair competition within the postal industry; |
| k) | promote stability in the postal industry; |
| l) | protect the interests of postal users and consumers; |
| m) | promote the effective maintenance of an efficient system of collecting, sorting, and delivering mail nationwide, in a manner responsive to the needs of all categories of mail users; |
| n) | contribute to the community and rural development and education, through actively participating in the development of a citizen's post office, serving as an interface between Government and community and providing a centre for community activities; |
| o) | promote interaction and co-operation with other agencies and local authorities; |
| p) | ensure compliance with international commitments; |
| q) | promote small, medium and macro-enterprises within the postal industry; and |
| r) | promote a culture of saving by means of the Postbank. |
