The pathway to integrated surface transport and regulation of logistics in South Africa

Bernard Aritua, Jan H. Havenga, Zane P. Simpson, Stefaan Swarts, Henk Neethling and Anneke de Bod

Chapter 14 in Challenges in Transport Regulation in Europe and Beyond, 2025, pp 275-312 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: The deterioration of South Africa's freight logistics system was estimated to cost 7 per cent of GDP in 2022. The president directed that a roadmap be prepared to translate policy commitments into reality. Research to inform national strategic decisions focused on the decline of the rail network and ports, as well as the rationale for the vertical and horizontal separation of the rail network, linkages to port efficiency, identification of investments and gaps in sector policy. Poor sector performance is due to a combination of factors, including historical under-investment in infrastructure, poor maintenance of rolling stock and equipment, theft and vandalism, operational inefficiencies and lack of customer orientation. Addressing these challenges required a multi-pronged approach with a key intervention being reforms to clarify roles and responsibilities and develop a path to integrated surface transport regulation. The experience of South Africa demonstrates how academia, policymaking, development partners and business can align to support reforms.

Keywords: Macro-logistics; Value chains; Logistics cost; Rail reform; Emerging economy; South Africa (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781035369157
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