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There’s a really excellent planet money podcast about this. Back when the US was a major exporter the UPU was great for US merchants.

https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2018/08/01/634737852/epis...

> Back when the US was a major exporter the UPU was great for US merchants.

The US is the world's #2 exporter. $1.57 trillion versus $2.15 trillion for China. China's figure peaked a few years ago, the US is likely to narrow that gap, especially with US energy exports continuing to ramp up. US exports of goods are near an all-time high after adjusting for inflation.

Universal Postal Union is a UN body that manages the relationships between different national post offices. They set standard rates and stuff for all member countries so that each country doesn't have to negotiate a treaty with any other country it wants to send international mail to.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universal_Postal_Union

Universal Postal Union: http://www.upu.int/en.html

"With its 192 member countries, the UPU is the primary forum for cooperation between postal sector players. It helps to ensure a truly universal network of up-to-date products and services."