Grindrod South Africa has been chosen by the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) to develop and operate the first full-scale container handling facility at the Port of Richards Bay. This decision answers long-standing industry calls for a container handling facility in the area, currently known as South Africa’s coal export hub.
The development will expand Richards Bay's container handling capacity from 50,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to 200,000 TEUs annually. The project, aligned with the TNPA KZN port master plan, will involve a R285 million investment and is set to be operational by 2027.
In a press statement, TNPA highlighted Grindrod's two decades of container sector expertise and the project's potential to boost regional economic growth, create jobs, and develop local skills. Grindrod South Africa, a Level 1 B-BBEE company, is partnering with local entity Eyamakhosi Resources to ensure community benefits. This strategic facility will lower logistics costs and reduce transportation lead times, enhancing both local and regional economies.
TNPA’s acting CEO, Adv Phyllis Difeto, and Grindrod CEO, Xolani Mbambo, expressed confidence in the project's significant economic and logistical impact, contributing to the region’s growth and global trade.