Carlo Petersen26 April 2024 | 12:01

CoCT welcomes Transnet's call for private partnership to boost its port

An ongoing logistics nightmare at the port has seen exporters struggle to reach offshore clients and citizens paying surcharges on delayed imported products.

CoCT welcomes Transnet's call for private partnership to boost its port

Port of Cape Town / Wikimedia Commons: SkyPixels

CAPE TOWN - The City of Cape Town has welcomed Transnet’s call for a private partner at the Port of Cape Town to address inefficiencies at the node.

An ongoing logistics nightmare at the port has seen exporters struggle to reach offshore clients and citizens paying surcharges on delayed imported products.

Earlier this week, the dire situation at the Port of Cape Town prompted the Transnet National Ports Authority to issue a call for bids to construct a bulk terminal at the port for 25 years.

This is expected to ease the pressure at the port and limit the impact of backlogs.

The MMC for Economic Growth, James Vos, says the announcement by Transnet is long overdue.

"The long-awaited move to seek a private partner for the Port of Cape Town development reflects the City of Cape Town's ongoing advocacy to achieve this because of the economic benefits for companies and job creation." 

Vos says Transnet must vet all bidders to ensure contracts are awarded to reputable entities.