Cape Town's port performance has significantly improved ahead of the 2026/27 deciduous fruit export season, especially concerning reefer capacity. Transport Minister Barbara Creecy announced operational improvements, including an impressive 39.9-minute average truck turnaround time and a reduction in vessel waiting times from 115 hours to 44.3 hours.

With the Port of Cape Town handling about 80% of South Africa's deciduous fruit exports, maintaining the cold chain is crucial. Preparations include ensuring sufficient reefer plug-point capacity and infrastructure to support the export process.

The port has completed testing on new equipment to enhance efficiency, including ten shore tension units that have reduced downtime by 92%. Creecy emphasised that continuous engagement with shipping lines, exporters, and industry bodies is essential to navigate operational challenges during the export season. Improved coordination across the logistics chain will be key to sustaining these gains and ensuring that reefer containers are managed effectively throughout the season.

Transnet will provide regular updates to customers and stakeholders on any developments and recovery measures in logistics.