RFA Backs Port of Gauteng Vision, Calls for Practical Road–Rail Integration

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The Road Freight Association (RFA) has expressed strong support for the Port of Gauteng initiative, calling it a major step toward fixing South Africa’s fragmented logistics system — provided it’s implemented with genuine cooperation between the public and private sectors.

RFA CEO Gavin Kelly said the R50 billion inland port outlined in the recently released White Paper represents “an ambitious and necessary project” that could transform freight transport along the Durban–Gauteng corridor.

“The developers have targeted a very ambitious project to address the huge shortfalls in the current logistics network, especially around rail and multimodal operations,” Kelly said. “The private sector must play a central role in driving this integration.”

The RFA says the White Paper’s vision — to create a premier trade gateway that restores balance to the supply chain — aligns closely with the Association’s long-held call for inland ports to ease congestion at Durban and City Deep.

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“We’ve spent decades promoting inland logistics hubs like this to relieve the pressure on the ports,” Kelly said. “The Durban bottleneck ripples through the entire economy — the White Paper correctly identifies this.”

The Association also noted that it has worked closely with SARS Customs and border agencies to modernise freight handling through electronic clearance systems and SmartBorder technology, making trade more efficient. Kelly said new inland staging hubs such as Cato Ridge and the proposed Gauteng port would unlock further gains.

While supporting a greater shift from road to rail, the RFA stressed that rail cannot succeed without efficient first- and last-mile road operations.

Read | RFA Welcomes Rail Reform, Urges Collaboration Between Road and Rail

“Rail currently handles less than 14% of volumes between Durban and Gauteng — far below the NDP’s 50% target,” Kelly said. “The two modes must complement each other. Road freight connects customers to rail — that’s the real-world balance we need.”

Kelly added that the inclusion of Performance-Based Standards (PBS) vehicles — or smart trucks — in the Port of Gauteng design is “an exciting development” that fits with the RFA’s research focus.

“Smart trucks aren’t just about payload,” he said. “They’re safer, more efficient, reduce fuel use, and lower road wear. Those are the non-negotiables in modern logistics.”

The RFA said it will continue supporting the government’s efforts to revitalise rail and welcomes private sector access to the network. It also acknowledged the growing impact of e-commerce, noting that the Port of Gauteng will have to operate at “e-commerce speed” to keep up with demand for smaller, faster shipments.

“Port of Gauteng aligns with our vision of a functional, efficient, and integrated logistics supply chain,” Kelly concluded. “If we get this right, the success of the port will be our members’ success — and ultimately, South Africa’s success.”