Port inefficiencies continue to plague the logistics sector, with transparency remaining a challenge. Despite some improvements, increased customs examinations are causing major delays and driving up costs for clients, while adding pressure to an already complex supply chain. According to Ashen Ramkissoon, sales manager at SA CARGO, ongoing efforts are being made to minimise disruptions and keep goods moving efficiently by leveraging industry expertise and strong regulatory relationships. “Innovation is at the core of our operations and we have partnered with a trusted Transport Management System (TMS) developer to enhance operational efficiency. This system provides real-time tracking of transport activities, allowing us to quickly identify and address inefficiencies. It also supports proactive planning around potential delays, ensuring smooth and seamless operations for our clients. Given the ongoing challenges with backlogs and delays, full visibility is essential for effective, forward-thinking logistics management.”Ravi Naicker, the company’s acting branch manager for logistics, told Freight News the South African logistics sector was experiencing a noticeable shift, with export volumes surpassing imports. “There is substantial growth in the breakbulk market, alongside an increase in passenger and fishing vessels. These developments offer exciting new opportunities for growth and diversification within the maritime industry,” he said.He added that while there had been notable improvements in port efficiency, particularly in Durban, further infrastructure development was critical to eliminate persistent constraints from the system. “Another pressing issue is the growing competition from shipping lines, which are now offering services traditionally dominated by local service providers such as clearing and forwarding, warehousing and transport.”He said companies such as SA CARGO were continuously evolving to meet this competition head-on by enhancing their service offerings and strengtheningclient partnerships.“Globally, logistics giants are integrating artificial intelligence (AI) for automation, predictive analytics and streamlined operations. In contrast, South Africa remains heavily reliant on manual systems, which slows progress in adopting technological advancements,” he said. “At SA CARGO, technology plays a pivotal role in transforming operations. We are continuously investing in digital infrastructure to enhance operational transparency, improve tracking capabilities and optimise supply chain management.”According to Naicker, the adoption of TMS has been a game-changer in enhancing logistics operations for the company. “Additionally, integrating Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools has allowed us to consolidate client data, monitor interactions and improve customer service efficiency, all from a single platform.”Ramkissoon said South Africa’s underutilised rail infrastructure presented a significant growth opportunity. “A strategic balance between rail and road transport can improve logistics operations and reduce costs,” he told Freight News. “The future of South African logistics lies in a strategic shift towards rail transport to reduce road congestion and improve cost efficiency. We foresee the rise of mini distribution hubs near ports to streamline cargo movement.”Additionally, he said, there was a pressing need to upskill logistics personnel, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical expertise.LV
