South Africa’s rail reform programme has reached a major milestone after the Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) officially revealed the 11 private Train Operating Companies (TOCs) selected to operate on the country’s national rail network.
The announcement marks a significant shift in South Africa’s freight rail sector, opening the network to private participation in an effort to improve rail volumes, strengthen logistics efficiency and reduce pressure on the country’s roads and ports.
According to TRIM, the selected operators will collectively add an estimated 24 million tonnes of freight capacity to the network, with the potential to scale up to 52 million tonnes over the next five years. The expansion supports government’s goal of increasing rail freight volumes from approximately 180 million tonnes to 250 million tonnes by 2030.
TRIM Chief Executive Moshe Motlohi described the development as a major breakthrough for South Africa’s rail industry.
“This milestone represents more than slot allocation, it signals the creation of a functional and competitive rail marketplace. We have moved from policy design to practical implementation, enabling real private-sector participation and investment in rail,” Motlohi said.
List of the 11 Companies Selected by Transnet
The newly selected Train Operating Companies are:
- ARC South Africa (ARC)
- The Railway Corporation
- MSC
- TLD Marine
- MENAR
- Sharp Logistics
- Barberry
- Grindrod
- Minrail
- IRACEMA
- Motheo Logistics
- Interlinks
The operators will serve key freight sectors including coal, manganese, containers, fuel and general cargo across five strategic rail corridors.
The move increases the number of active operators on South Africa’s rail network from one to 12, creating a more competitive freight rail environment.
Durban and Cato Ridge Rail Project Could Reduce Truck Congestion
TRIM also confirmed that its Ad Hoc Slot application process, introduced in December 2025, is already unlocking new freight opportunities.
One of the first proposed services includes a short-haul rail operation between Durban and Cato Ridge, aimed at reducing road congestion around the Port of Durban.
The service is expected to assist in moving more containers off trucks and onto rail, helping ease pressure on busy logistics corridors in KwaZulu-Natal.
According to Transnet, the route is targeted to begin operations during May 2026.
More Rail Operators Expected by 2027
Engagements are currently underway to help onboard the newly selected operators and prepare them for operational readiness.
Some companies are expected to begin operations before the end of 2026, while others are targeting launch dates during 2027.
Transnet said the latest developments are also helping improve investor confidence and the bankability of rail projects as the country continues refining access rules through the upcoming Network Statement Version 4.
The rail reform programme is expected to play a major role in improving the movement of minerals, agricultural produce, containers and fuel across South Africa while strengthening export capacity through the country’s ports.
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