Historic 62% Above-Target Efficiency Reached at Cape Town Container Terminal
The Cape Town Container Terminal (CTCT) has made a remarkable comeback in the 2025/2026 financial year, achieving a historic 62% increase in container handling volumes. This significant improvement was evident in the week ending July 20, 2025, when CTCT handled 19,931 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), surpassing its target of 12,283 by a substantial margin [1].
This impressive performance has been the result of a strategic approach that includes focused leadership, strategic investment, and a commitment to operational excellence. Since April 2025, CTCT has consistently exceeded its targets, closing the first quarter 32% above its projected volumes [1].
One of the key factors contributing to this success is the investment in terminal infrastructure. The acquisition of 18 new rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes has been instrumental in enhancing container movement efficiency. Nine of these cranes have already been commissioned for operations [1].
Another crucial aspect of CTCT's turnaround is the emphasis on workforce engagement and empowerment. The terminal's management has prioritized clear communication of daily performance targets and reinforced support structures on the ground. This people-first approach has significantly contributed to improved productivity [1].
Despite ongoing challenges such as equipment reliability and weather, the focus on maximizing resources has helped increase throughput, particularly refrigerated container throughput, which rose by 64% in June 2025 compared to the same period in the previous year [1].
CTCT's resurgence serves as a symbol of progress within Transnet Port Terminals (TPT). The terminal's weekly volume is the highest since March 2019, demonstrating what can be achieved through strategic focus, investment, and empowered leadership [1].
As CTCT continues to recover and grow, it sets a new benchmark for excellence in terminal operations, reflecting a well-executed combination of capital investment, leadership focus, employee empowerment, and infrastructure upgrades [1].
[1] Transnet Port Terminals press release, 23 July 2025.
- The economy, particularly the industry and finance sectors, will benefit from the Cape Town Container Terminal's (CTCT) improved performance and historical 62% increase in container handling.
- The CTCT's turnaround strategy, which includes investment in infrastructure, such as newly acquired rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes, and a focus on operational excellence, is infiltrating the aerospace and transportation industries.
- Diversity and inclusion are integral to CTCT's success, with their focus on workforce engagement and empowerment taking steps to improve productivity and, in turn, the manufacturing sector.
- With strategic leadership at the helm, the CTCT's accomplishments demonstrate the potential positive impact on South Africa's energy sector and overall economy in future financial years.
- In light of CTCT's groundbreaking achievements, businesses should reflect upon the benefits of prioritizing resources, setting clear targets, and fostering a culture of employee support to drive success and improve service delivery.
