WASHINGTON, DC — Businesses and consumers will soon be able to ship to the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) and the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) at U.S. domestic prices.

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will reinstate ZIP Codes and domestic-rate services for nearly 170,000 people in these two Pacific Island nations effective Nov. 19, 2007.

“This change will expand the Asia-Pacific market for U.S. mailers and shippers,” said USPS Global Business Managing Director and Senior Vice President Paul Vogel. “At the same time, it will help these two island nations grow their economies.”

As former Trust Territories of the United States, the FSM and RMI were served by USPS with domestic prices and mailing standards through Jan. 8, 2006. International rates were being phased in, as the two nations took steps to become more self-sufficient. However, technological and other challenges have presented obstacles for the countries — which together encompass more than 630 small islands across 1 million square miles in the Pacific.

“The two governments will continue to pursue long-term solutions,” said Vogel. “In the meantime we are returning domestic prices and services to help keep their residents and businesses connected to the wider global economy.”

Vogel noted that developing trade and tourism is a top priority for the region, particularly in aquaculture and agriculture. “The FSM and RMI have excellent opportunities to pursue,” Vogel said. “Offering dependable and affordable USPS mailing and shipping services will help them develop their economies.”

The FSM and RMI are located just above the equator, extending some 4,500 miles southwest from Hawaii.

Some of the domestic mailing and shipping prices are: 41 cents for a First-Class Mail letter, $4.60 for Priority Mail up to 1 lb., $8.95 for a Priority Mail Flat-Rate Box, and $16.25 for Express Mail up to 1/2 lb. Some exclusions apply on domestic special services, such as Collect on Delivery, Delivery Confirmation, Signature Confirmation, and electronic return receipt options. Express Mail service will be offered without a guarantee. Full service details and prices can be found online at usps.com.

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