Transnet’s preparations at Cape Town terminals mark a proactive step toward streamlining South Africa’s deciduous fruit export season. With over 70 additional pieces of equipment and more operators, Transnet aims to boost efficiency for exports of table grapes, peaches, apricots, nectarines, plums, and cherries, with apple and pear exports starting in January.
In a joint statement between Hortgro, the South African Table Grape Industry (Sati) and the Fresh Produce Exporters Forum, the industry leaders have established a productive collaboration, aiming to tackle long-standing logistical and infrastructure challenges at the port.
Preparing for a busy season
“Last season about 80% of all deciduous fruit exports from South Africa were shipped from the Port of Cape Town. The progress made to date to enhance infrastructure and machinery availability at the Port of Cape Town and Transnet’s commitment to continuing this progress is encouraging.
“However, industry representatives caution that the impact of these improvements would only fully materialise over the medium to long term,” the organisations stated.
The fruit industry said the reality is that growers, exporters, and logistical service providers should still be ready to respond to challenges that may arise during the export season.
“This could include implementing the use of alternative modes of shipping or shipping routes to alleviate the pressure on the Cape Town Container Terminal, to facilitate fruit reaching markets in the shortest possible time in the interest of servicing clients, meeting programme deadlines, and ensuring quality fruit upon arrival.”
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According to the statement, growers have suffered financially over the past few seasons largely due to conditions beyond their direct control, including rising input costs, load shedding, and challenges at the port.
“While it is encouraging to see the progress made at the Port of Cape Town due to collaboration between industry and the Transnet since last season, it will take time for the plans and actions already undertaken to filter down to ground and orchard level.
“Whilst challenges such as equipment breakdowns, staffing issues and adverse weather conditions may arise, industry appreciates the efforts, planning, equipment and replacement resource allocation plans made by Transnet.
“Collaboration between Transnet and the fruit industry is ongoing with clear and achievable objectives,” the statement said.
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