South Africa's ports handled a record number of containers in mid-July, reaching levels last seen in 2017/18, reported Johannesburg's Farmer's Weekly.
In the week ended July 12, container terminals processed an average of 14,470 TEU, exceeding the South African Association of Freight Forwarders' (SAAFF) forecast of 12,609 TEU. The increase was attributed to operational improvements and stronger stakeholder collaboration.
Port Elizabeth Container Terminal saw the sharpest rise, with weekly throughput up 121 per cent to 4��59 containers, following a 90 per cent increase the previous week. Cape Town Container Terminal handled 19,931 containers, up 52 per cent.
Citrus exports were a key driver, according to Citrus Growers' Association CEO Boitshoko Ntshabele, who cited the Valencia orange and late mandarin season. He warned, however, that port unpredictability remains a concern despite recent efficiency gains.
Mr Ntshabele called for private-sector participation to ensure long-term certainty, noting delays in the Durban Pier 2 concession project. He also highlighted the need for expanded capacity to meet future citrus export growth.
SAAFF's report also flagged a 12 per cent rise in inbound air freight, likely linked to anticipated US tariffs. Imports are trending five per cent higher year on year, while US inbound container volumes fell 7.9 per cent in June, suggesting a broader trade contraction.
https://www.shippingazette.com/news?news_id=9250800000549
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