Transnet has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (PoABI) and the Antwerp/Flanders Port Training Center (APEC) to support the modernisation of South Africa's port system.
The parties signed the agreement on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday.
It establishes a framework for cooperation focused on port operational excellence, digitalisation, sustainability, infrastructure planning, and regional corridor development aimed at strengthening South Africa's logistics performance and regional trade competitiveness.
The partnership will introduce global best practices, technical training, benchmarking, and advisory support to build long-term institutional capacity within Transnet divisions. It also includes collaboration on hinterland corridor development and global investment programmes, including opportunities linked to the EU Global Gateway initiative, a strategy to mobilise investments in sustainable infrastructure projects worldwide. The initiative focuses on digital, energy, transport, health, education, and research sectors.
Key areas of intended cooperation include:
* Managerial, operational, strategic and governance advisory support
* Sustainability strategy and policy for energy, ecological, and social responsibility transitions
* Port operations and digitalisation
* Corridor development and foreign investment programmes
* Training, and strengthening of human and institutional capacities
Transnet Group chief executive Michelle Phillips highlighted the timing and strategic importance of the deal.
"This partnership comes at a critical time as we accelerate the modernisation of our ports and strengthen South Africa's position in regional and global trade. Through this collaboration, we will leverage global best practices in order to strengthen our ports' strategic position as gateways for regional and international trade,” said Phillips.
She said the company’s Reinvent for Growth Strategy seeks to modernise, expand and optimise ports through such strategic investments and partnerships.
Kristof Waterschoot, Managing Director of PoABI and APEC, said the agreement was a renewal of a long-standing relationship.
“In a new and evolved port landscape we will collaborate on trending topics like energy transition and decarbonisation whilst still embracing … operational efficiency and port logistics.”
Port of Antwerp-Bruges CEO, Jacques Vandermeiren, said the agreement marked a chapter of a renewed partnership with Transnet.
“Together, we are committed to building capacity and sharing expertise in the port sector, with a strong focus on energy transition and sustainability. By joining forces, we create new opportunities for growth, innovation, and sustainable development.”
The parties agreed to establish a Joint Monitoring Committee to oversee the implementation of the MoU.
