Japan Post raised postage rates on October 1st. This is the first increase in 30 years, excluding adjustments due to consumption tax hikes. Standard-size letters weighing up to 50 g are now grouped into a single category. Postage for these letters has risen to 110 yen. Nonstandard letters and various services have also seen an increase of approximately 30%. In addition, standard postcards now cost 85 yen, up from 63 yen. Japan Post recorded a deficit in 2022, largely due to the continuing rise of digital communication. The latest hike is intended to sustain services. Japan Post says it is committed to providing stable rates while enhancing service convenience. To achieve this, it is working to further streamline delivery processes and reduce costs.