South African ports have achieved a major milestone by moving 18689 twenty foot equivalent units in a single day during August 2025, the highest daily throughput since the pandemic. The record was confirmed by the Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders which praised the achievement as proof that the country’s logistics sector is capable of delivering world class performance even under pressure.
Industry leaders credited the record to improved cooperation between stakeholders, upgraded equipment, and renewed efficiency measures at Transnet operated terminals. Juanita Maree, chief executive of SAAFF, said the success reflects the combined effort of freight forwarders, shipping lines, and terminal operators who worked together to overcome obstacles.
Despite the achievement, South African ports continue to face significant challenges. Ageing infrastructure, global trade tensions, high operating costs, and capacity limitations remain a drag on long term competitiveness. Shipping giant Maersk’s recent decision to scale back its operations in South Africa has highlighted the urgency of structural reforms and modernization.
The record throughput offers hope that reforms underway can restore investor confidence and improve reliability in the country’s maritime trade. It also underscores the importance of ports as lifelines for South Africa’s export and import industries. Maintaining this momentum will depend on sustained investment in technology, infrastructure, and policy changes aimed at strengthening the entire supply chain.
For now, the container record serves as a symbolic win for South Africa’s logistics sector, proving that with determination and collaboration the country can navigate global pressures while keeping its ports moving.