A smart logistics hub is being developed on South Africa’s east coast, with the expansion of the container capacity at the Port of Richards Bay.

Engineering News reports that the Grindrod Eyamakhosi joint venture has signed a 25-year concession with the Transnet National Ports Authority to build and operate a ZAR285 million container handling facility at the port’s Bayvue precinct.

The project is expected to quadruple the port’s handling capacity from 50 000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to 200 000 TEUs. The port’s cargo profile, which is mainly associated with coal, as well as dry, break and liquid bulk cargo, is also expected to expand.

Using updated technology and specialised equipment to ensure a quick turnaround of vessels, the new facility will be operated by Gridrod and Eyamakhosi as a smart logistics hub. The facility, which will create 122 permanent jobs, will be operational by 2028.

‘The establishment of this facility will enhance the efficiency, resilience and competitiveness of our national freight system,’ said Transnet board chair, Andile Sangqu, adding that it will reduce road congestion from Durban, shorten supply chain lead times and ultimately lower logistics costs.

27 May 2025
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