China Post to Issue RFID Tags Stamps: A New Era in Philately

China Post is once again incorporating RFID technology into stamps, marking a significant advancement in stamp security and digital integration. A recent tender announcement confirms plans to procure RFID testing equipment, signaling the return of smart stamps.

China Post’s Latest RFID Stamp Initiative

On November 11, China Electronic Commerce (Beijing) Co., Ltd. announced an open bidding process on behalf of the Postal Research Center of China Post Group. The tender seeks RFID tag performance consistency test equipment and RFID tag bending performance test equipment. Bidders must have prior experience, with at least three successful sales cases since January 1, 2021. The deadline for electronic and paper submissions is December 5, 2024.

This move strongly suggests that China Post will introduce RFID-enabled stamps again, continuing an innovation first seen in 2020.

China’s First RFID Chip Stamp

In 2020, China Post issued a commemorative stamp sheet embedded with a 120-micron-thick NFC tags, commemorating the 40th National Best Stamp Selection. This marked China’s first chip-integrated stamp.

The NFC chip allowed collectors to scan the stamp via a mobile app, revealing a unique serial number, fluorescent anti-counterfeiting code, and chip ID. This ensured each stamp’s authenticity while offering collectors a novel interactive experience. With high-level encryption technology, these stamps provided advanced security against forgery.

Why Embed RFID in Stamps?

The integration of RFID chips enhances both security and user experience in several key ways:

1. Strengthened Anti-Counterfeiting Measures

• High-Tech Security: The unique and tamper-resistant nature of RFID chips significantly reduces counterfeiting risks.

• Data Tracking: RFID technology allows tracking of each scan, improving authenticity verification.

2. Digital Information Integration

• Enhanced Storage: RFID chips store essential data such as serial numbers and hidden security codes.

• Easy Access: Users can instantly retrieve detailed stamp information via a mobile app.

3. Enhanced Collector Experience

• Unique Identification: Each stamp carries a distinct chip ID, adding value to collections.

• Interactive Viewing: Collectors can engage with stamps in a new, digital way, improving appreciation and knowledge.

4. Advancing Stamp Issuance Technology

• Printing Innovation: The use of RFID promotes technological advancements in stamp production.

• Global Influence: China’s smart stamps set a new benchmark in digital philately worldwide.

Conclusion

The return of RFID chip stamps by China Post signifies a groundbreaking shift in stamp security and collector engagement. By leveraging NFC technology, these stamps bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, ensuring authenticity while offering a richer, more interactive collecting experience. As digitalization reshapes philately, RFID chip stamps stand at the forefront of this transformation.