Modern infrastructure alone won’t unlock Africa’s trade potential. Smarter border systems, digital integration and regional collaboration are just as important. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) has given intra-African trade significant momentum, with trade expected to exceed R3.8 trillion this year while supporting the continent’s economic growth. By reducing trade friction, strengthening regional value chains and lowering settlement costs …

OPINION – The World Bank Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) 2025 By:  The Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF)Author:  Dr Jacob van Rensburg –  Head of Research and Industry Intelligence The World Bank Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) 2025 brings encouraging news for South Africa’s container ports and highlights performance gains worth recognising. However, important insights lie not in …

Freight rates could spike materially in the coming weeks as the downstream impacts of disruption the world over make their mark, and, once again, it appears carriers will be the beneficiaries of global chaos. Analysing links between freight rates, carrier profits, and the Global Supply Chain Pressure Index, the South African Association of Freight Forwarders’ (SAAF) head of research and …

On 25 and 26 May, members of the AMIE Executive, led by Paul Matthew, participated in a strategic roadshow initiative in Durban, where AMIE and SAAFF hosted the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Nakampe Masiapato, together with other BMA officials. The engagement provided an important platform for direct discussions with the Commissioner, focused on strengthening collaboration and …

South Africa’s 3,000km coastline has long been viewed as little more than a strategic shipping corridor, a point where global vessels pass between the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. But today, that narrative is shifting. As global sustainability demands reshape trade and logistics, South Africa’s ocean economy is increasingly being positioned as a platform for sustainable trade, green innovation and long-term …

The South African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) has cautiously welcomed signs of operational improvement at Transnet after the State-owned logistics group announced stronger vessel traffic performance during the 2025/26 financial year. Transnet said last week that vessel arrivals at South African ports rose by 9% year-on-year, signalling what it described as a strong operational recovery across its port system. However, Dr …

The Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) has officially endorsed Truck Test 2026, reinforcing the event’s position as a benchmark initiative for the transport and logistics sector in South Africa and across the continent. The endorsement marks a significant milestone for Truck Test, which continues to grow in credibility and industry relevance. Scheduled to take place from 3 to …

In an increasingly complex and data-driven supply chain environment, mastering logistics requires more than operational efficiency. Devlyn Naidoo explains that it demands purpose, insight, strategic thinking and disciplined execution to remain competitive and relevant. You will be glad to know this is not another ubiquitous food review. Those who didn’t get the dry humour relating to the title are forgiven. …

This year marks a truly remarkable milestone as the Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) celebrates 105 years of service to the South African logistics industry. On 13 and 14 May 1921, the First Conference of the South African Shipping & Forwarding Agents Association was convened in Port Elizabeth, now Gqeberha, laying the foundation for what would become one …

From groundwork to real movement, Q1 2026 marks a shift from intention to impact. This edition of Touch the Sky explores how reform, collaboration, and industry alignment are beginning to translate into measurable progress across the logistics system.