Logistics News 9th September 2025

South Africa secured a vital trade win this week. The US confirmed that local fisheries will retain access to export markets beyond 2026, protecting an industry that underpins jobs, investment, and food security. For exporters, this means stability in a major market at a time when global trade is anything but predictable.

At the same time, Transnet’s results reveal an organisation still under strain but moving in the right direction. A narrower loss of R1.9 billion and stronger rail and automotive throughput are encouraging, but debt levels and ongoing security losses remind us how fragile the system remains. For cargo owners, the takeaway is clear: resilience is improving, but disruption risks remain real.

Ports tell the same story. Durban volumes are climbing, Ngqura is steady, and Cape Town is gaining ground thanks to new equipment. Yet security, cable theft, and border congestion continue to erode efficiency. For exporters like citrus growers, new rail slots are a welcome relief, but many supply chains still balance on narrow margins.

Globally, freight rates are stabilising after months of decline. Carriers are pulling levers on capacity, but excess vessel supply looms large. Rates may hold in the short term, yet uncertainty around US tariffs and trade restrictions is building pressure again.

What it means for business

For our clients, the message is simple:

• Global markets are shifting daily. Secure your lanes and book capacity early.

• Border and customs challenges are persistent budget time and cost buffers.

• Rates may look stable, but volatility hasn’t gone away. Build flexibility into contracts.

Knowledge Corner: Be Ready for Random Customs Stops

Even compliant shipments can be pulled for inspection. The key is speed. With documents aligned, a TSI controller ready to respond, and communication lines open, most stops clear in 24–48 hours. It’s not about avoiding the stop. It’s about minimising the cost of delay.

Clifford Blackburn, CEO of TSI Central Station

South Africa’s trade outlook is a mix of progress and pressure. We see stability in key markets like the US fish sector, stronger flows through Durban and Ngqura, and a trade surplus that speaks to resilience. But we also see risks at every stage from theft on rail lines to congestion at borders and uncertainty in global freight rates.

At TSI, our role is to stand between those risks and your business, ensuring that shipments keep moving and margins stay protected.