Cape Town's Container Terminal Sets Stunning Record with 62% Percentage Surpassing Previous Performance Goals
The Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT) has experienced a significant improvement and record-breaking performance in the 2025/2026 financial year, thanks to strategic investments, empowered leadership, and a renewed commitment to operational excellence.
Since April 2025, the terminal has benefited from strong leadership emphasizing operational excellence and workforce empowerment. This focus has led to the acquisition of 18 new rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes, nine of which have already been commissioned, enhancing the terminal's infrastructure and handling capacity.
The CTCT's operational improvements and workforce engagement have been evident in its performance. The terminal implemented a people-first approach, setting clear, daily performance targets and reinforcing on-ground support. This boosted staff productivity and engagement, contributing significantly to the improved throughput.
The terminal's hard work paid off in June 2025, when it recorded a 64% year-on-year increase in refrigerated container throughput. This growth is a testament to the terminal's critical role in supporting South Africa's export economy.
Moreover, the terminal consistently exceeded targets, reaching 62% above target in the week ending 20 July 2025, handling 19,931 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) against a target of 12,283. This marked the highest weekly volume since March 2019.
Across Transnet Port Terminals, there has been notable improvement in vessel arrival, berthing, and departure compliance. CTCT's compliance rate stands at 83% as of May 2025, contributing to smoother logistics and reduced vessel waiting times.
Terminal Manager, Noxolo Thabatha, stated that CTCT is in a better position than it was last year. As CTCT continues to recover and grow, it sets a new benchmark for excellence in terminal operations within Transnet Port Terminals.
Despite challenges such as equipment reliability and weather, the focus is on maximizing resources and empowering employees to overcome these hurdles. The CTCT's resurgence in the 2025/2026 financial year is a clear demonstration of what can be achieved through strategic focus, investment, and empowered leadership.
The strategic investments in new rubber-tyred gantry cranes at the Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT) have bolstered its infrastructure, enabling a significant increase in handling capacity. The improved infrastructure, coupled with a focus on finance and business strategies, has contributed to the terminal's record-breaking performance and enhanced its role in supporting South Africa's economy.
