Exporters Western Cape (EWC) has noted Transnet Port Terminals' advisory regarding the planned national protest action scheduled for 19 June 2026 and the potential impact on transport and logistics operations.
While acknowledging the constitutional right to protest, EWC is concerned about the economic consequences of any disruption to South Africa's supply chains at a time when exporters continue to operate in an increasingly uncertain global trading environment.
Recent improvements in port performance have provided some encouragement for exporters. According to the latest World Bank Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) 2025, Durban, Ngqura and Port Elizabeth recorded some of the strongest year-on-year improvements globally, although South African ports continue to rank among the lower-performing ports internationally and remain in a recovery phase.
"The logistics sector has worked hard to restore confidence in South Africa's supply chains, but that recovery remains fragile," said Terry Gale, EWC Chairperson.
"Every stakeholder has a responsibility to consider the broader economic consequences of actions that disrupt trade and logistics networks. Exporters operate in highly competitive international markets where reliability and certainty are critical. Any disruption, even if temporary, can result in delays, increased costs and reputational damage that ultimately affects South Africa's competitiveness."
Transnet Port Terminals has advised that waterside operations are expected to continue as planned, but that landside operations may face delays due to access constraints and congestion arising from the planned protest action.
EWC welcomes Transnet's efforts to prepare for potential disruptions and minimise any impact on operations
"As a country, we can ill afford setbacks to the progress that has been achieved in recent months. South Africa’s exporters are competing for market share in a difficult global environment and depend on reliable logistics networks to honour commitments to customers around the world. Disruptions to supply chains do not only affect logistics operators - they affect exporters, producers, workers and ultimately the wider economy,” said Gale.
EWC will continue to monitor developments closely and encourages exporters to engage proactively with their logistics service providers regarding any contingency planning that may be required.
