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2 December 2025 – South Africa’s ports continue to play a critical role in keeping trade moving, supporting everything from consumer goods and machinery to fuel and industrial inputs. In 2025, performance has improved noticeably, local terminals are handling more containers than they have in recent years, helped by new equipment, better productivity, and stronger weekly volumes. However, challenges remain. Weather disruptions, equipment breakdowns, and uneven performance between terminals still lead to delays and occasional congestion. For importers and exporters, this means advance planning and having supply chain visibility remains essential to avoid unexpected disruption.
Key Improvements in 2025
- Container handling volumes are higher than recent years, with terminals managing stronger weekly and monthly throughput.
- Equipment upgrades and operational reforms are now translating into improved crane productivity and shorter anchorage times. In Durban, the average vessel wait at anchorage has come down significantly from 18 days in January to just 2–3 days currently.
- Some ports have seen improved turnaround times, contributing to more consistent cargo flow during peak seasons.
- Early signs of recovery continue to build confidence for importers and exporters heading into 2026.
Ongoing Challenges:
- Delays still occur due to weather, equipment breakdowns, port booking limitations and uneven terminal performance.
- Yard and gate congestion remain risks during high-volume periods.
- Port booking availability can tighten quickly, especially in Durban.
- Reliability is improving, but not yet stable enough for just-in-time planning without buffer.
Below is the most recent field challenges at South Africa’s key ports namely Durban, Cape Town and Ngqura:
Source: Transnet Ports