The Resurgence of South Africa’s Commercial Ports
South Africa’s commercial ports are experiencing a renaissance, with a striking recovery in ship arrivals since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. As of 2025, the nation’s eight major seaports have recorded a robust total of 9,342 vessel dockings, reflecting renewed vigor at these critical trade gateways following years of disruption.
Key Highlights from 2025
The latest statistics reveal that South Africa’s commercial ports—Cape Town, Durban, Richards Bay, Gqeberha, Ngqura, Saldanha Bay, East London, and Mossel Bay—are gradually bouncing back, supported by a growth trajectory that signifies an evolving trade environment. According to reports from BusinessTech and research by GroundUp, this year’s figures mark a significant uptick from the slump experienced between 2019 and 2021, when dockings fell to a low of 8,453.
Impact of the Pandemic and Operational Challenges
The sharp decline in ship arrivals during the pandemic can be largely attributed to the global slowdown in trade and local operational challenges. Ship dockings plummeted from 9,882 in 2019, highlighting issues beyond just Covid-19 restrictions. Factors such as aging infrastructure and inefficiencies within operational processes have played a significant role in curbing port activities.
Current Trends: A Slight Recovery
Despite 2025’s totals being slightly below the 2018 levels, the overall trend indicates a stabilizing atmosphere within South Africa’s major harbors. Durban Harbour continues to assert its dominance as the busiest port in the country, although it saw a slight decrease in arrivals from 3,061 in 2018 to 2,939 in 2025. This port is instrumental in handling over 86 million tons of cargo annually, accounting for approximately 60% of the nation’s imports and exports. Its extensive infrastructure supports this crucial role, featuring 58 berths and a dedicated cruise terminal.
Cape Town’s Remarkable Growth
In contrast to the trends at Durban, Cape Town Harbour has witnessed significant growth during this period. Arrivals increased from 1,604 in 2018 to 2,235 in 2025, allowing it to overtake Richards Bay and become the second busiest port in the country. The strategic location of Cape Town, along historic trade routes since 1652, bolsters its functionality in cargo operations, fishing, and tourism, particularly associated with the V&A Waterfront.
Declining Activity at Richards Bay
Richards Bay, known primarily for coal exports since its establishment in 1976, has experienced a downturn—recording 1,922 ship dockings in 2018, which fell to 1,438 in 2025. This decline has been partially linked to coal shortages due to inefficiencies in Transnet’s rail network. Nevertheless, ongoing improvements in rail operations and planned infrastructure upgrades suggest a potential stabilization of activities at this critical port, which still manages around 60% of South Africa’s annual seaborne cargo.
Varied Roles of South Africa’s Port System
Beyond the three largest ports, each of the remaining harbors plays a vital role in the nation’s maritime ecosystem:
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Ngqura: Operational since 2009 and located near Gqeberha, this port serves as a deep-water transshipment hub and features the country’s longest breakwater within the Coega Industrial Development Zone.
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Gqeberha: Formerly known as Port Elizabeth, this harbor manages mixed cargo through its 12 berths, which are strategically located in Algoa Bay.
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East London: South Africa’s only river port, East London remains unique with 11 commercial berths, enhancing its appeal for local trade.
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Mossel Bay: The smallest commercial harbor by size, Mossel Bay has an essential role supporting fishing operations, while also retaining historical significance in South Africa’s maritime narrative.
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Saldanha Bay: Situated along the West Coast, Saldanha Bay continues to function as a critical bulk export hub, primarily for iron ore and other minerals.
The Road Ahead
As South Africa’s ports continue to adapt and recover, the gradual return to pre-pandemic capacity reflects broader economic resilience and the potential for strengthening trade links both domestically and internationally. Each port remains uniquely positioned to contribute to the country’s economic landscape, ensuring that South Africa’s maritime strategy remains pivotal in the face of evolving global trade dynamics.
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