The Eastern Cape economy, particularly the province’s automotive and agricultural sectors, are set to receive a significant export boost from the R9.1 billion infrastructure development investment by Transnet National Ports Authority . The investment over a seven-year period comprises a budget allocation of R4.8 billion for the ports in Port Elizabeth and Ngqura in Nelson Mandela Bay, and R4.3 billion for the East London port.
during recent stakeholder engagement sessions held in the two cities. Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber CEO Denise van Huyssteen said on Wednesday the metro has a strong base of manufacturers, particularly in the automotive and agricultural sectors, who export products to various markets around the world. Read:
to invest R9bn in central region ports’ infrastructure development Two-ports advantage should be maximised Van Huyssteen said the metro has a distinct advantage in that it has two ports, which should serve as a catalyst to enable Nelson Mandela Bay to retain and attract investment. However, she said the ports are not optimally utilised and operational efficiencies are well below international standards.
’s announcement that it will spend R4.8 billion on our ports as part of a seven-year capital investment plan, we do believe that this in tandem with public-private partnerships, such as the appointment of viable commercial operators at the ports, would go a long way in improving the competitiveness of the ports.
managing executive for the Central Region Siyabulela Mhlaluka said they have earmarked the Port of Port Elizabeth for the automotive sector, with the Port of Ngqura being positioned as a transshipment and energy hub for the southern hemisphere. Shenxane said the development of the East London port will finally encourage Mercedes-Benz to cater for growth of its exports and its regional supply cluster.