In a move to boost economic growth in Buffalo City, Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to develop and transform the Port of East London into a major manufacturing hub.
The port, which has a R3.- billion asset base and covers 1.3 million sqm of land area, currently operates seven terminals and 11 commercial berths.
However, according to Sharon Sijako, East London port manager, the latest infrastructure upgrades at the port will allow for larger vessels to call, expanding business opportunities to the wider Eastern Cape region in the process.
“We raised the case for expansion of our automotive terminal, maritime engineering and commercial activities in the ship repair precinct.
“We are well aware that the potential to grow volumes and expand business at the port hinges on our ability to accommodate larger vessels through deepening and widening the entrance channel with related berths and terminals,” Sijako said.
Speaking at the recent Buffalo City Investment Conference in East London, she added that the port had remained a key trading hub, particularly for the city’s prominent automotive sector.
On top of the automotive sector, which accounts for 14% of South Africa’s export value, the port handles other key commodities such as processed foods, dry bulk grains and livestock.
The implementation of the project will see the refurbishment of the port’s dry dock, reconstruction of Quay 3, the introduction of a landing jetty, and the replacement of Buffalo Bridge. – Bjorn Vorster
