Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) says it has recorded “significant operational improvements” at the Port of Cape Town, with progress in terminal performance, reduced ship turnaround time (STAT) and increased volume throughput across key commodity sectors.

According to the State-owned port operator it has achieved consistent year-on-year improvements in container terminal STAT, decreasing from 103 hours in the 2023/24 financial year to 83 hours in 2024/25, with a further improvement to 74 hours in 2025/26.

“This year’s performance 2026/27 has continued this positive trajectory, with year-to-date STAT averaging 58 hours,” reports the company.

Vessels are also spending less time waiting at anchorage, with average anchorage waiting times dropping from 127 hours in the 2023/24 financial year to 79 hours in 2025/26.

TNPA credits improved terminal handling rates and the elimination of marine-related delays for these gains, which it says provide “a clear indication of sustained operational recovery and improved reliability at the port”.

Cargo volumes during the 2025/26 financial year also improved across key commodity sectors.

Container volumes increased by 6.5% compared with the 2024/25 financial year, supported by a record performance in deep-sea import and export volumes.

Liquid bulk volumes grew by 10.3% year-on-year, driven by higher petroleum imports and strong coastwise export activity.

Dry bulk volumes were influenced by favourable local harvests and improved domestic grain availability, which reduced the Western Cape’s reliance on imported grain.

Lower maize and barley imports resulted in a 42.8% year-on-year decline in dry bulk volumes.

In turn, break bulk volumes increased by 25.5% year-on-year.

The port continues to advance private sector participation, says TNPA.

Currently, nine out of 11 terminals are privately operated, with new requests-for-proposals planned for a multipurpose terminal, as well as a floating dock facility aimed at expanding ship repair capacity.

Strategic infrastructure interventions have supported the port’s operational performance, including ten permanently deployed shore tension units at the Cape Town Container Terminal, says TNPA.

The units have reduced long-wave-related downtime by 92% since the 2023/24 financial year.

“The Port of Cape Town continues to make measurable progress in improving operational performance and service delivery,” says Port of Cape Town acting port manager Ophelia Shabane.

“These gains demonstrate the impact of targeted interventions, infrastructure investment and strong collaboration with terminal operators and industry stakeholders.

“We remain focused on building a resilient, efficient and globally competitive port that supports economic growth and trade facilitation.”