With great progress in revitalizing the logistics environment in South Africa, TransNet cleared its backlog at the port of Durban, reaching a pivotal moment for the country's import, export and trade and investment outlook. This achievement not only highlights Transnet's commitment to operational excellence, but also demonstrates renewed trust in South Africa's ability to support robust economic growth and attract global investment.
Durban port, the busiest port of sub-Saharan Africa, handles about 60% of South Africa's container traffic. In the second half of 2023, the port faced unprecedented congestion, with up to 63 vessels locked offshore, with an average stagnation delay of 18 days. Contributing factors include harmful weather conditions, equipment failures and shortages of operating machines. These challenges resulted in significant financial losses estimated at R160 million since September 2023, threatening the country's trade efficiency and economic stability. になったんです。 English: The first thing you can do is to find the best one to do.
TransNet's multifaceted response
To combat the crisis, TransNet has implemented a comprehensive recovery plan focusing on infrastructure upgrades, equipment procurement and operational reform. These include:
Infrastructure and equipment upgrades
In 2025, TransNet Port Terminal (TPT) announced R3.4 billion investment to strengthen its Durban Container Terminal. This included the acquisition of 20 new straddle carriers for two piers and nine rubber gantry (RTG) cranes. These additions are intended to reduce congestion and improve freight handling efficiency. になったんです。 English: The first thing you can do is to find the best one to do.
Additionally, by December 2023, TransNet increased tag availability to an average of six operational tags, facilitating faster vessel turnaround times and supporting container recovery plans (Sanews.gov.za).
Operational reform
TransNet has introduced a fourth shift to ensure 24-hour operation, increasing productivity and reducing vessel latency. A robust maintenance system has also been established, focusing on the reliability and availability of existing equipment.
The South African Ship Operators and Agents Association (SAASOA) recognized the improvements and noted the increased cooperation between Transnet and private sector partners. This synergy helped restore confidence in the port's operation and reliability.
The resolution of the Durban Port Backlog has a widespread economic implication.
Trade and export efficiency: As a key gateway for export and import, improving port efficiency directly benefits South Africa's trade balance. Reducing delays will increase the competitiveness of South African products in support sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture and mining.
Investment Attraction: Operational turnarounds strengthened investor trust. In July 2024, the African Development Bank approved a loan to support Transnet's recovery plan, facilitating the first phase of its five-year capital investment strategy of R152.8 billion.
Durban Port's enhancements are positioned as a competitive player in the global maritime industry. The plan to deepen the berth from 12.8 meters to 16.5 meters and extend the berth length will accommodate larger ships, increase port capacity and appeal to international transport lines.
These developments are alongside TransNet's vision for converting Durban into premier containers and automotive hubs, with container volume capacity forecast to grow from 2.9 million TEU to 11.4 million TEUs. になったんです。 English: The first thing you can do is to find the best one to do.
Maintain momentum
TransNet's long-term vision includes continuous investments in infrastructure, digitalization, and sustainability. Procurement of land cranes from four vessels scheduled for commissioning in the second half of 2025 at a cost of R1.4 billion, exemplifying this commitment. になったんです。 English: The first thing you can do is to find the best one to do.
Additionally, TransNet's strategic partnerships with private companies, including collaboration with Grindrod to develop container handling facilities at Richards Bay Port, demonstrate a proactive approach to expanding capacity and increasing efficiency across the South African port network.
