The more than 100 000 freight containers that Transnet Port Terminals (TPT) handled last week are good news for the citrus industry, which is currently reaching the peak of its season.
By Michelle van der Spuy, senior journalist at African Farming and Landbouweekblad
According to TPT, the 101 295 freight containers it handled last week across its container terminals in Durban, Cape Town, Gqeberha and Ngqura exceeded the combined weekly target for these terminals by 15%.
This level of service delivery was last achieved in the 2017/18 financial year, when a record number of 101 871 freight containers were handled.
According to TPT, it has experienced sustained improvements in its service delivery since Transnet’s recovery plan was introduced late in 2023. TPT is also surpassing targets for cargo ship turnaround times.
Factors contributing to this include direct reporting on service delivery, the introduction of a new incentive scheme, and the replacement of equipment. A fourth shift has also been introduced across all terminals, supporting a balance between service delivery and staff wellbeing.
Also read: Trains crucial for future of citrus exports
TPT manages over 4 million freight containers each year. Plans are in place to increase the volume by engaging new partners and exploring additional markets.
“Recent initiatives have enhanced collaboration with clients, as well as promoted integrated planning and sharing of best practices,” states a TPT declaration.
Thanks to allocations from the National Treasury, TPT was able to speed up its plan for equipment procurement. Additional new equipment is expected to arrive in Cape Town and Durban before the end of the year.
Improved port service delivery is positive news for the agricultural sector overall, but particularly for the citrus industry, which is now in the busiest part of the season.
Citrus exports reached 91.2 million carton boxes (each weighing 15kg) as of 13 July. The industry is projected to have exported 175.6 million carton boxes by the end of the season in October.
