Diversified logistics giant Transnet – the largest state-owned logistics entity in Africa – should declare certain elements as essential services to avoid industrial action, as the utility’s operations are vital to the economy.
The chief executive of Business Unity South Africa, Cas Coovadia, has said that recent strikes had throttled the ports and reduced crucial exports.
A classification as “essential” would position the selected Transnet operations alongside the South African Police Service and some categories of medical personnel deemed too important to be disrupted by industrial action.
Speaking on 702, Coovadia said such stoppages could particularly impact perishable goods.
South Africa's deciduous fruit exports are one such category that can be threatened, which is devastating for the country's reputation as a reliable trading partner and results in losses due to spoiled fruit.
