Performance targets working well

The decision to implement performance targets for terminal operators will pay off in the long run as it will improve efficiency at South African ports, according to Nico Walters, general manager strategy for Transnet National Ports Authority. “The first review of the targets has just taken place and we are happy with the outcome so far,” he said. “We see our role in two major compartments. Firstly the port must become infrastructure providers and secondly they must become shipping and logistics hubs.” But to become a shipping and logistics hub, one needs operational efficiency – and that means terminal productivity is in the spotlight. “We have to make sure our ports are efficient and then also ensure we have competitive supply chains in place,” he said. "Performance targets go a long way in ensuring this efficiency is achieved."