Summary
A permanent IM (TRIM) is not yet established but the interim IM is in in place. Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) is being vertically separated into the TRIM and the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC).
View DetailsIs it working?
Not yet established
Actions
We await announcements on making this a permanent entity.
Are there plans?
TRIM forms part of the freight logistics roadmap
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
After the interim IM, a permanent Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) is to be created to manage rail infrasctructure.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
A permanent IM (TRIM) is not yet established but the interim IM is in in place. Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) is being vertically separated into the TRIM and the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC).
View DetailsIs it working?
Not yet established
Actions
We await announcements on making this a permanent entity.
Are there plans?
TRIM forms part of the freight logistics roadmap
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
After the interim IM, a permanent Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) is to be created to manage rail infrasctructure.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
A permanent IM (TRIM) was established in October 2024, with Transnet appointing Durban port manager Moshe Motlohi as interim TRIM CEO while the recruitment process for a permanent appointment gets under way . Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) is being vertically separated into the TRIM and the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC).
View DetailsIs it working?
Still early to see its work in the rail industry. For instance, the Network Statement is yet to be launched
Actions
The TRIM has been established
Are there plans?
TRIM forms part of the freight logistics roadmap
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
After the interim Infrastructure Manager (IM) was established, a permanent Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) is to be created to manage rail infrastructure.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
A permanent IM (TRIM) was established in October 2024, with Transnet appointing Durban port manager Moshe Motlohi as interim TRIM CEO while the recruitment process for a permanent appointment gets under way . Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) is being vertically separated into the TRIM and the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC).
View DetailsIs it working?
Still early to see its work in the rail industry. For instance, the Network Statement is yet to be launched
Actions
The TRIM has been established
Are there plans?
TRIM forms part of the freight logistics roadmap
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
After the interim Infrastructure Manager (IM) was established, a permanent Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) is to be created to manage rail infrastructure.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
TRIM was established in October 2024, with Transnet appointing Durban port manager Moshe Motlohi as interim TRIM CEO while the recruitment process for a permanent appointment gets under way . Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) is being vertically separated into the TRIM and the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC).
View DetailsIs it working?
Good progress made but still in implentation therefore too early to assess effectiveness.
Actions
After being established, TRIM has already developed the Network Statement, opened rail slot applocations for third parties and released tariff proposals
Are there plans?
TRIM forms part of the freight logistics roadmap
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
After the interim Infrastructure Manager (IM) was established, a permanent Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) has been created to manage rail infrastructure.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
TRIM is an interim structure and not yet a permanent and fully independent entity. It currently operates under Transnet Group but is tasked with facilitating open access to the rail network, including granting access to third-party train operators, which is a significant step towards rail sector reform and market liberalisation. TRIM is currently listed as one of Transnet group divisions, including TE, TFR, TPT, TNPA and TP. Note: This reform has been moved to Ov2.0 under Freight Logistics.
View DetailsIs it working?
Progress has been made but reforms are still being implemented and it is too early to assess effectiveness. Moshe Motlohi was appointed as the CEO of TRIM, with effect from 1 March 2025. Under Motlohi's leadership, TRIM has been actively involved in implementing the Freight Logistics Roadmap, the National Rail Policy and preparing for phase 2 of open access, which includes granting access to third-party train operators to use the rail network,.
Actions
Limited specific actions have been taken towards full independence: •The Economic Regulation of Transport Act was promulgated, establishing the legal framework for the TER •The Department of Transport called for nominations for TER board members with a closing date of 16 September 2024 •The Act commenced partially on 1 April 2025, with full implementation planned for 1 April 2026
Are there plans?
TRIM forms part of the freight logistics roadmap. Plans for full independence are less developed than the interim arrangements. The Economic Regulation of Transport Act provides the regulatory framework for independent oversight. The TER is to be established with board appointments expected following the Act's implementation
Is it on the agenda?
Yes, the concept of an independent infrastructure manager is part of the broader rail reform agenda, though less explicitly defined than the interim arrangements. The Economic Regulation of Transport Act establishes the Transport Economic Regulator (TER) which will provide independent economic oversight. The regulatory structure envisions independent infrastructure management with economic oversight by the TER.
Goals
To establish the interim TRIM as a permanent/independent entity to manage rail infrastructure.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
The Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) is an interim structure and not yet a permanent and fully independent entity. It currently operates under Transnet Group but is tasked with facilitating open access to the rail network, including granting access to third-party train operators, which is a significant step towards rail sector reform and market liberalisation. TRIM is currently listed as one of Transnet group divisions. Note: This reform has been moved to Ov2.0 under Freight Logistics.
View DetailsIs it working?
Progress has been made but reforms are still being implemented and it is too early to assess effectiveness. Moshe Motlohi was appointed as the CEO of TRIM, with effect from 1 March 2025. Under Motlohi's leadership, TRIM has been actively involved in implementing the Freight Logistics Roadmap, the National Rail Policy and preparing for phase 2 of open access, which includes granting access to third-party train operators to use the rail network.
TRIM publishes its own Network Statement, sets access tariffs (subject to regulatory approval), manages slot allocation and maintains commercial relationships with TOCs independently of Transnet Freight Rail. However, TRIM's budget remains subject to Transnet board approval, and it does not yet have separate debt-raising capacity or a discrete balance sheet.
Actions
TRIM became a distinct division on 1 November 2023 and fully operational on 1 April 2025. This included transferring 14,000 staff from Transnet Freight Rail, appointing Moshe Motlohi as chief executive, and setting up independent budgets, systems and reporting. TRIM also published its first Network Statement and introduced an interim tariff-setting process.
Actions under way
CorporatisationrnBy March 2026, TRIM will be established as a wholly owned Transnet subsidiary with its own board, legal entity and financial reporting. Work is under way on valuation, SAP and billing upgrades, and developing options for a sustainable capital structure, including potential government guarantees.
Regulatory frameworkrnThe permanent Transport Economic Regulator will be operational by March 2026 to oversee TRIM’s tariffs, investment plans and access regime, reducing Transnet’s direct control.
Are there plans?
TRIM forms part of the freight logistics roadmap and National Treasury and the Presidency's second phase of reforms under Operation Vulindlela. OV 2.0's next steps focus on completing the preparatory work to establish the independence of TRIM.
Ownership models are under review
Policy and industry debate continues on full ownership unbundling - transferring infrastructure assets out of Transnet to a new state-owned entity - or adopting an independent system operator model that retains ownership but separates operational control.
Policy direction
The National Rail Policy supports government custodianship of the rail network, with access fees funding operations only. Implementation remains under discussion. The immediate focus is corporatisation by March 2026, while longer-term unbundling decisions will depend on Transnet’s recovery, open-access performance and fiscal capacity.
Is it on the agenda?
Yes, the concept of an independent infrastructure manager is part of the broader rail reform agenda, though less explicitly defined than the interim arrangements. The Economic Regulation of Transport Act establishes the Transport Economic Regulator (TER) which will provide independent economic oversight. The regulatory structure envisions independent infrastructure management with economic oversight by the TER.
Goals
The primary goal of establishing TRIM as a separate entity is to enable competitive access to South Africa's rail network by transitioning from a monopoly operator model to a multi-operator system where private train operating companies compete on equal terms with Transnet Freight Rail. This vertical separation - splitting infrastructure management from operations - addresses conflicts of interest inherent in vertically integrated monopolies, attracts private sector investment, and aims to reverse decades of rail decline by increasing freight volumes from below 150Mt to a target of 250Mt annually by 2029.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
The Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) is an interim structure and not yet a permanent and fully independent entity. It currently operates under Transnet Group but is tasked with facilitating open access to the rail network, including granting access to third-party train operators, which is a significant step towards rail sector reform and market liberalisation. TRIM is currently listed as one of Transnet group divisions.
View DetailsIs it working?
Progress has been made but reforms are still being implemented and it is too early to assess effectiveness. Moshe Motlohi was appointed as the CEO of TRIM, with effect from 1 March 2025. Under Motlohi's leadership, TRIM has been actively involved in implementing the Freight Logistics Roadmap, the National Rail Policy and preparing for phase 2 of open access, which includes granting access to third-party train operators to use the rail network.
TRIM publishes its own Network Statement, sets access tariffs (subject to regulatory approval), manages slot allocation and maintains commercial relationships with TOCs independently of Transnet Freight Rail. However, TRIM's budget remains subject to Transnet board approval, and it does not yet have separate debt-raising capacity or a discrete balance sheet.
Actions
TRIM became a distinct division on 1 November 2023 and fully operational on 1 April 2025. This included transferring 14,000 staff from Transnet Freight Rail, appointing Moshe Motlohi as chief executive, and setting up independent budgets, systems and reporting. TRIM also published its first Network Statement and introduced an interim tariff-setting process.
Actions under way
CorporatisationrnBy March 2026, TRIM will be established as a wholly owned Transnet subsidiary with its own board, legal entity and financial reporting. Work is under way on valuation, SAP and billing upgrades, and developing options for a sustainable capital structure, including potential government guarantees.
Regulatory frameworkrnThe permanent Transport Economic Regulator will be operational by March 2026 to oversee TRIM’s tariffs, investment plans and access regime, reducing Transnet’s direct control.
Are there plans?
TRIM forms part of the freight logistics roadmap and National Treasury and the Presidency's second phase of reforms under Operation Vulindlela. OV 2.0's next steps focus on completing the preparatory work to establish the independence of TRIM.
Ownership models are under review
Policy and industry debate continues on full ownership unbundling - transferring infrastructure assets out of Transnet to a new state-owned entity - or adopting an independent system operator model that retains ownership but separates operational control.
Policy direction
The National Rail Policy supports government custodianship of the rail network, with access fees funding operations only. Implementation remains under discussion. The immediate focus is corporatisation by March 2026, while longer-term unbundling decisions will depend on Transnet’s recovery, open-access performance and fiscal capacity.
Is it on the agenda?
Yes, the establishment an independent infrastructure manager is part of the broader rail reform agenda, though less explicitly defined than the interim arrangements. The Economic Regulation of Transport Act establishes the Transport Economic Regulator (TER) which will provide independent economic oversight. The regulatory structure envisions independent infrastructure management with economic oversight by the TER.
Goals
The primary goal of establishing TRIM as a separate entity is to enable competitive access to South Africa's rail network by transitioning from a monopoly operator model to a multi-operator system where private train operating companies compete on equal terms with Transnet Freight Rail. This vertical separation - splitting infrastructure management from operations - addresses conflicts of interest inherent in vertically integrated monopolies, attracts private sector investment, and aims to reverse decades of rail decline by increasing freight volumes from below 150Mt to a target of 250Mt annually by 2029.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
The Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) is an interim structure and not yet a permanent and fully independent entity. TRIM has achieved meaningful functional milestones – 11 train operating companies (TOC) agreements signed, a CEO appointed, and the PFMA pre-notification for subsidiary status submitted – but legal and structural independence remains undefined and unscheduled. The Transport Economic Regulator (TER) has entered an establishment phase, not full operation; full functionality is now set for April 2027 at earliest, meaning independent regulatory oversight for a permanent infrastructure manager remains a year away at minimum. The PFMA pre-notification is the most structurally significant development since the reform launched: it is the first formal step towards corporatisation, but it does not alter TRIM's current status inside Transnet.
View DetailsIs it working?
The permanent independent Infrastructure Manager does not exist; TRIM operates as a Transnet division and the TER is not yet a functioning regulator.
As of April 2026, TRIM describes itself as a "newly established division of Transnet". Its budget remains subject to Transnet board approval. The TER board has convened but the regulator is not yet exercising its substantive mandate and will not be fully operational until April 2027 at earliest. TRIM's financial sustainability is exposed: revenue depends on access fees growing as TOCs ramp up, and the infrastructure funding model is not yet self-sustaining. No private trains have yet operated commercially on the network.
Actions
A structural pathway is set out in the roadmap with some defined near-term milestones, but the end-state ownership model is unresolved and no independence date has been announced.
Two models remain under active policy review: full ownership unbundling (transferring rail infrastructure assets to a new state entity) and an independent system operator model (retaining Transnet ownership while fully separating operational control). Neither has been formally adopted. The Operation Vulindlela Q4 2025/26 progress report sets out the following forward milestones: Network Statement Version 4 published by mid-2026; National Rail Bill to Cabinet by September 2026; TER fully operational from April 2027; TRIM established as a formal subsidiary – no date confirmed, PFMA pre-notification submitted during Q4 2025/26. Full independence has no target date.
Are there plans?
TRIM forms part of the freight logistics roadmap and National Treasury and the Presidency's second phase of reforms under Operation Vulindlela. OV 2.0's next steps focus on completing the preparatory work to establish the independence of TRIM.
Ownership models are under review. Policy and industry debate continues on full ownership unbundling (transferring infrastructure assets out of Transnet to a new state-owned entity) or adopting an independent system operator model that retains ownership but separates operational control.
Policy direction: the National Rail Policy supports government custodianship of the rail network, with access fees funding operations only. Implementation remains under discussion. The immediate focus is corporatisation, while longer-term unbundling decisions will depend on Transnet’s recovery, open-access performance and fiscal capacity.
Is it on the agenda?
An independent Infrastructure Manager is explicitly committed to in the National Rail Policy, the Freight Logistics Roadmap and Operation Vulindlela 2.0.
The Freight Logistics Roadmap (Cabinet, December 2023) establishes vertical separation as a strategic objective. Operation Vulindlela 2.0 identifies completing the preparatory work to establish TRIM's independence as a near-term next step. The Economic Regulation of Transport (ERT) Act (signed June 2024) provides the regulatory architecture – the TER and Transport Economic Council – that would anchor a permanent independent IM.
Goals
The primary goal of establishing TRIM as a separate entity is to enable competitive access to South Africa's rail network by transitioning from a monopoly operator model to a multi-operator system where private train operating companies compete on equal terms with Transnet Freight Rail. This vertical separation - splitting infrastructure management from operations - addresses conflicts of interest inherent in vertically integrated monopolies, attracts private sector investment, and aims to reverse decades of rail decline by increasing freight volumes from below 150Mt to a target of 250Mt annually by 2029.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
The Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) is an interim structure and not yet a permanent and fully independent entity. Transnet has submitted a Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) pre-notification for TRIM as a subsidiary but the National Rail Bill, which would give the legal framework for infrastructure separation, has not been tabled.
As of September 2026, TRIM continues to design and run the access processes meant to open the network to competition, and train operating companies are locking in commercial terms against tariffs Transnet itself set, ahead of the Transport Economic Regulator (TER) becoming fully operational.
We don't think TRIM's separation will happen in the near future and will likely follow the corporatisation of Transnet National Port Authority, as there is a lot more uncertainty on timing.
Is it working?
The permanent independent Infrastructure Manager does not exist; TRIM is the one concluding rail access agreements with new operators and published the Network Statement. The issue is of course that TRIM, while functioning separately from Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), remains inside the Transnet group, not a legally separate entity, and it still sets and administers the same access rules. Path allocation has also drawn criticism: paths are awarded route by route with little regard to whether the resulting mix forms a viable business, and slot capacity is now nearing its ceiling. Until legal separation happens and the TER is fully empowered over rail, equal treatment across operators can't be independently verified.
Actions
A structural pathway is set out in the roadmap with some defined near-term milestones, but the end-state ownership model is unresolved and no independence date has been announced.
Two models remain under active policy review: full ownership unbundling (transferring rail infrastructure assets to a new state entity) and an independent system operator model (retaining Transnet ownership while fully separating operational control). Neither has been formally adopted. The Operation Vulindlela Q4 2025/26 progress report sets out the following forward milestones: Network Statement Version 4 published by mid-2026; National Rail Bill to Cabinet by September 2026; TER fully operational from April 2027; TRIM established as a formal subsidiary – no date confirmed, PFMA pre-notification submitted during Q4 2025/26. Full independence has no target date.
Are there plans?
Only in outline and it is likely to be a protracted process. TRIM forms part of the freight logistics roadmap and National Treasury and the Presidency's second phase of reforms under Operation Vulindlela. OV 2.0's next steps focus on completing the preparatory work to establish the independence of TRIM.
Ownership models are under review. Policy and industry debate continues on full ownership unbundling (transferring infrastructure assets out of Transnet to a new state-owned entity) or adopting an independent system operator model that retains ownership but separates operational control.
Is it on the agenda?
Yes. Structural separation of the infrastructure manager from TFR has been government policy since the 2022 white paper on rail policy, and sits in Operation Vulindlela, the National Rail Master Plan and the freight logistics roadmap.
Goals
The primary goal of establishing TRIM as a separate entity is to enable competitive access to South Africa's rail network by transitioning from a monopoly operator model to a multi-operator system where private train operating companies compete on equal terms with Transnet Freight Rail. This vertical separation - splitting infrastructure management from operations - addresses conflicts of interest inherent in vertically integrated monopolies, attracts private sector investment, and aims to reverse decades of rail decline by increasing freight volumes from below 150Mt to a target of 250Mt annually by 2029.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
The Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) is an interim structure and not yet a permanent and fully independent entity. Transnet has submitted a Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) pre-notification for TRIM as a subsidiary but the National Rail Bill, which would give the legal framework for infrastructure separation, has not been tabled.
As of September 2026, TRIM continues to design and run the access processes meant to open the network to competition, and train operating companies are locking in commercial terms against tariffs Transnet itself set, ahead of the Transport Economic Regulator (TER) becoming fully operational.
We don't think TRIM's separation will happen in the near future and will likely follow the corporatisation of Transnet National Port Authority, as there is a lot more uncertainty on timing.
Is it working?
The permanent independent Infrastructure Manager does not exist; TRIM is the one concluding rail access agreements with new operators and published the Network Statement. The issue is of course that TRIM, while functioning separately from Transnet Freight Rail (TFR), remains inside the Transnet group, not a legally separate entity, and it still sets and administers the same access rules. Path allocation has also drawn criticism: paths are awarded route by route with little regard to whether the resulting mix forms a viable business, and slot capacity is now nearing its ceiling. Until legal separation happens and the TER is fully empowered over rail, equal treatment across operators can't be independently verified.
Actions
A structural pathway is set out in the roadmap with some defined near-term milestones, but the end-state ownership model is unresolved and no independence date has been announced.
Two models remain under active policy review: full ownership unbundling (transferring rail infrastructure assets to a new state entity) and an independent system operator model (retaining Transnet ownership while fully separating operational control). Neither has been formally adopted. The Operation Vulindlela Q4 2025/26 progress report sets out the following forward milestones: Network Statement Version 4 published by mid-2026; National Rail Bill to Cabinet by September 2026; TER fully operational from April 2027; TRIM established as a formal subsidiary – no date confirmed, PFMA pre-notification submitted during Q4 2025/26. Full independence has no target date.
Are there plans?
Only in outline and it is likely to be a protracted process. TRIM forms part of the freight logistics roadmap and National Treasury and the Presidency's second phase of reforms under Operation Vulindlela. OV 2.0's next steps focus on completing the preparatory work to establish the independence of TRIM.
Ownership models are under review. Policy and industry debate continues on full ownership unbundling (transferring infrastructure assets out of Transnet to a new state-owned entity) or adopting an independent system operator model that retains ownership but separates operational control.
Is it on the agenda?
Yes. Structural separation of the infrastructure manager from TFR has been government policy since the 2022 white paper on rail policy, and sits in Operation Vulindlela, the National Rail Master Plan and the freight logistics roadmap.
Goals
The primary goal of establishing TRIM as a separate entity is to enable competitive access to South Africa's rail network by transitioning from a monopoly operator model to a multi-operator system where private train operating companies compete on equal terms with Transnet Freight Rail. This vertical separation - splitting infrastructure management from operations - addresses conflicts of interest inherent in vertically integrated monopolies, attracts private sector investment, and aims to reverse decades of rail decline by increasing freight volumes from below 150Mt to a target of 250Mt annually by 2029.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Transnet Freight Rail , an operating division of Transnet, is being broken up into the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC) and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM). For TRIM, an interim IM has been established. This is a big step towards open rail access. One of the commercial objectives of the interim IM is to increase rail market share by facilitating road to rail migration.
View DetailsIs it working?
The interim IM is still new. But its work is already visible such as setting up the draft rail Network Statement.
Actions
Transnet established an interim IM in November 2023 in order to carry out all required activities to facilitate third-party access ahead of the creation of a permanent operating division (TRIM).
Are there plans?
It is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
The interim Infrastructure Manager (IM) has been established with a mandate to manage rail infrastructure to improve rail capacity and access.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Transnet Freight Rail , an operating division of Transnet, is being broken up into the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC) and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM). For TRIM, an interim IM has been established. This is a big step towards open rail access. One of the commercial objectives of the interim IM is to increase rail market share by facilitating road to rail migration.
View DetailsIs it working?
The interim IM is still new. But its work is already visible such as setting up the draft rail Network Statement.
Actions
Transnet established an interim IM in November 2023 in order to carry out all required activities to facilitate third-party access ahead of the creation of a permanent operating division (TRIM).
Are there plans?
It is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
The interim Infrastructure Manager (IM) has been established with a mandate to manage rail infrastructure to improve rail capacity and access.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Transnet Freight Rail , an operating division of Transnet, is being broken up into the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC) and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM). For TRIM, an interim IM has been established. This is a big step towards open rail access. One of the commercial objectives of the interim IM is to increase rail market share by facilitating road to rail migration.
View DetailsIs it working?
The interim IM was established and its work was visible such as setting up the draft rail Network Statement.
Actions
Transnet established an interim IM in November 2023 in order to carry out all required activities to facilitate third-party access ahead of the creation of a permanent operating division (TRIM).
Are there plans?
It is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
The interim Infrastructure Manager (IM) has been established with a mandate to manage rail infrastructure to improve rail capacity and access.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Transnet Freight Rail , an operating division of Transnet, is being broken up into the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC) and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM). For TRIM, an interim IM has been established. This is a big step towards open rail access. One of the commercial objectives of the interim IM is to increase rail market share by facilitating road to rail migration.
View DetailsIs it working?
The interim IM was established and its work was visible such as setting up the draft rail Network Statement.
Actions
Transnet established an interim IM in November 2023 in order to carry out all required activities to facilitate third-party access ahead of the creation of a permanent operating division (TRIM).
Are there plans?
It is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
The interim Infrastructure Manager (IM) has been established with a mandate to manage rail infrastructure to improve rail capacity and access.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Transnet Freight Rail , an operating division of Transnet, is being broken up into the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC) and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM). For TRIM, an interim IM has been established. This is a big step towards open rail access. One of the commercial objectives of the interim IM is to increase rail market share by facilitating road to rail migration.
View DetailsIs it working?
The interim IM was established and its work was visible such as setting up the draft rail Network Statement.
Actions
Transnet established an interim IM in November 2023 in order to carry out all required activities to facilitate third-party access ahead of the creation of a permanent operating division (TRIM).
Are there plans?
It is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
The interim Infrastructure Manager (IM) has been established with a mandate to manage rail infrastructure to improve rail capacity and access.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Transnet Freight Rail , an operating division of Transnet, is being broken up into the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC) and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM). For TRIM, an interim IM has been established. This is a big step towards open rail access. One of the commercial objectives of the interim IM is to increase rail market share by facilitating road to rail migration.
View DetailsIs it working?
The interim IM was established and its work was visible such as setting up the draft rail Network Statement.
Actions
Transnet established an interim IM in November 2023 in order to carry out all required activities to facilitate third-party access ahead of the creation of a permanent operating division (TRIM).
Are there plans?
It is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
The interim Infrastructure Manager (IM) has been established with a mandate to manage rail infrastructure to improve rail capacity and access.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Transnet Freight Rail , an operating division of Transnet, is being broken up into the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC) and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM). For TRIM, an interim IM has been established. This is a big step towards open rail access. One of the commercial objectives of the interim IM is to increase rail market share by facilitating road to rail migration.
View DetailsIs it working?
The interim IM was established and its work was visible such as setting up the draft rail Network Statement.
Actions
Transnet established an interim IM in November 2023 in order to carry out all required activities to facilitate third-party access ahead of the creation of a permanent operating division (TRIM).
Are there plans?
It is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
The interim Infrastructure Manager (IM) has been established with a mandate to manage rail infrastructure to improve rail capacity and access.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Transnet Freight Rail , an operating division of Transnet, is being broken up into the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC) and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM). For TRIM, an interim IM has been established. This is a big step towards open rail access. One of the commercial objectives of the interim IM is to increase rail market share by facilitating road to rail migration.
View DetailsIs it working?
The interim IM was established and its work was visible such as setting up the draft rail Network Statement.
Actions
Transnet established an interim IM in November 2023 in order to carry out all required activities to facilitate third-party access ahead of the creation of a permanent operating division (TRIM).
Are there plans?
It is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
The interim Infrastructure Manager (IM) has been established with a mandate to manage rail infrastructure to improve rail capacity and access.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Transnet Freight Rail, an operating division of Transnet, is being broken up into the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC) and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM). For TRIM, an interim IM has been established. This is a big step towards open rail access. One of the commercial objectives of the interim IM is to increase rail market share by facilitating road to rail migration. COMPLETE: We stopped tracking this reform at end-June 2025 as it is complete.
View DetailsIs it working?
The interim infrastructure manager is operational and showing early signs of effectiveness. TRIM has successfully published the Network Statement and established rail access tariffs. The organisation has received "credible bids" from five private operators for 2.1Mt of rail capacity, indicating strong market interest. However, full efficacy assessment remains premature as the start date for third party operators remain uncertain.
Actions
•Cabinet approved the White Paper on National Rail Policy (March 2022) •The Economic Regulation of Transport Act was promulgated (2024) •TRIM was formally established (November 2023) •Senior leadership appointments were made, including CEO appointment •The Network Statement was finalised and published (December 2024) •Rail access tariffs for 2024/25 were developed and published •Consultation processes with stakeholders were conducted through IRERC
Are there plans?
Comprehensive plans have been developed and are being implemented. The draft Network Statement was published in March 2024, followed by extensive consultation processes. The final Network Statement was published on 20 December 2024, establishing the framework for third-party access. Rail operating company and infrastructure manager operating models and organisational designs are set to be finalised in 2025.
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
The interim Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) has been established with a mandate to manage rail infrastructure to improve rail capacity and access.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Transnet Freight Rail, an operating division of Transnet, is being broken up into the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC) and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM). For TRIM, an interim IM has been established. This is a big step towards open rail access. One of the commercial objectives of the interim IM is to increase rail market share by facilitating road to rail migration. COMPLETE: We stopped tracking this reform at end-June 2025 as it is complete.
View DetailsIs it working?
The interim infrastructure manager is operational and showing early signs of effectiveness. TRIM has successfully published the Network Statement and established rail access tariffs. The organisation has received "credible bids" from five private operators for 2.1Mt of rail capacity, indicating strong market interest. However, full efficacy assessment remains premature as the start date for third party operators remain uncertain.
Actions
•Cabinet approved the White Paper on National Rail Policy (March 2022) •The Economic Regulation of Transport Act was promulgated (2024) •TRIM was formally established (November 2023) •Senior leadership appointments were made, including CEO appointment •The Network Statement was finalised and published (December 2024) •Rail access tariffs for 2024/25 were developed and published •Consultation processes with stakeholders were conducted through IRERC
Are there plans?
Comprehensive plans have been developed and are being implemented. The draft Network Statement was published in March 2024, followed by extensive consultation processes. The final Network Statement was published on 20 December 2024, establishing the framework for third-party access. Rail operating company and infrastructure manager operating models and organisational designs are set to be finalised in 2025.
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
The interim Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) has been established with a mandate to manage rail infrastructure to improve rail capacity and access.
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Transnet Freight Rail, an operating division of Transnet, is being broken up into the Transnet Freight Rail Operating Company (TFROC) and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM). For TRIM, an interim IM has been established. This is a big step towards open rail access. One of the commercial objectives of the interim IM is to increase rail market share by facilitating road to rail migration. COMPLETE: We stopped tracking this reform at end-June 2025 as it is complete.
View DetailsIs it working?
The interim infrastructure manager is operational and showing early signs of effectiveness. TRIM has successfully published the Network Statement and established rail access tariffs. The organisation has received "credible bids" from five private operators for 2.1Mt of rail capacity, indicating strong market interest. However, full efficacy assessment remains premature as the start date for third party operators remain uncertain.
Actions
•Cabinet approved the White Paper on National Rail Policy (March 2022) •The Economic Regulation of Transport Act was promulgated (2024) •TRIM was formally established (November 2023) •Senior leadership appointments were made, including CEO appointment •The Network Statement was finalised and published (December 2024) •Rail access tariffs for 2024/25 were developed and published •Consultation processes with stakeholders were conducted through IRERC
Are there plans?
Comprehensive plans have been developed and are being implemented. The draft Network Statement was published in March 2024, followed by extensive consultation processes. The final Network Statement was published on 20 December 2024, establishing the framework for third-party access. Rail operating company and infrastructure manager operating models and organisational designs are set to be finalised in 2025.
Is it on the agenda?
Transnet unbundling is part of the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the 2022 White Paper on National Rail Policy.
Goals
The interim Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) has been established with a mandate to manage rail infrastructure to improve rail capacity and access.
Departments / Govt Institutions
No data available for the deliverable: TNPA corporatisation
Summary
The restructuring of Transnet (Transnet unbundling) was formally introduced in the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the TNPA has been established as an independent subsidiary of Transnet, enabling it to bring in the private sector to rejuvenate and manage ports on a concessioning basis. International Container Terminal Services, a Philippines company, has been selected to upgrade and manage the Durban container terminal.
View DetailsIs it working?
The tender conditions give the new private partner operating control of the partnership entity, which is crucial, but Transnet remains the majority owner and has already insisted that the employees of the partnership entity be seconded by Transnet under the same terms and conditions of employment. It's still early to say whether the TNPA will truly operate independently. There remains a risk of undue political influence as the public enterprise minister is responsible for appointing board members of the entity. It will also be part of the drafting of Access Agreement
Actions
The TNPA became an independent entity in October 2023 on the appointment of the new board.
Are there plans?
Corporatisation of TNPA is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
This was a key reform of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.
Goals
One of Transnet's operating divisions, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), has been established as an independent entity and a new board has been appointed. The aim is to improve efficiencies at the country's ports. A private partner has been selected for the Durban container terminal.
References
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
The restructuring of Transnet (Transnet unbundling) was formally introduced in the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the TNPA has been established as an independent subsidiary of Transnet, enabling it to bring in the private sector to rejuvenate and manage ports on a concessioning basis.
View DetailsIs it working?
The tender conditions give the new private partner operating control of the partnership entity, which is crucial, but Transnet remains the majority owner and has already insisted that the employees of the partnership entity be seconded by Transnet under the same terms and conditions of employment. It's still early to say whether the TNPA will truly operate independently. There remains a risk of undue political influence as the public enterprise minister is responsible for appointing board members of the entity. It will also be part of the drafting of Access Agreement
Actions
The TNPA became an independent entity in October 2023 on the appointment of the new board.
Are there plans?
Corporatisation of TNPA is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
This was a key reform of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.
Goals
One of Transnet's operating divisions, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), has been established as an independent entity and a new board has been appointed. The aim is to improve efficiencies at the country's ports.
References
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
The restructuring of Transnet (Transnet unbundling) was formally introduced in the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the TNPA has been established as an independent subsidiary of Transnet, enabling it to bring in the private sector to rejuvenate and manage ports on a concessioning basis.
View DetailsIs it working?
The tender conditions give the new private partner operating control of the partnership entity, which is crucial, but Transnet remains the majority owner and has already insisted that the employees of the partnership entity be seconded by Transnet under the same terms and conditions of employment. It's still early to say whether the TNPA will truly operate independently. There remains a risk of undue political influence as the public enterprise minister is responsible for appointing board members of the entity. It will also be part of the drafting of Access Agreement
Actions
The TNPA became an independent entity in October 2023 on the appointment of the new board.
Are there plans?
Corporatisation of TNPA is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
This was a key reform of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.
Goals
One of Transnet's operating divisions, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), has been established as an independent entity and a new board has been appointed. The aim is to improve efficiencies at the country's ports.
References
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
The restructuring of Transnet (Transnet unbundling) was formally introduced in the 2020 Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan and the TNPA has been established as an independent subsidiary of Transnet, enabling it to bring in the private sector to rejuvenate and manage ports on a concessioning basis.
View DetailsIs it working?
The tender conditions give the new private partner operating control of the partnership entity, which is crucial, but Transnet remains the majority owner and has already insisted that the employees of the partnership entity be seconded by Transnet under the same terms and conditions of employment. It's still early to say whether the TNPA will truly operate independently. There remains a risk of undue political influence as the public enterprise minister is responsible for appointing board members of the entity. It will also be part of the drafting of Access Agreement
Actions
The TNPA became an independent entity in October 2023 on the appointment of the new board.
Are there plans?
Corporatisation of TNPA is a pillar of the freight logistics roadmap.
Is it on the agenda?
This was a key reform of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.
Goals
One of Transnet's operating divisions, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), has been established as an independent entity and a new board has been appointed. The aim is to improve efficiencies at the country's ports.
References
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Mandated by the National Ports Act of 2005, corporatisation has stalled for nearly 20 years. President Ramaphosa revived it in June 2021, with a target for completion by April 2025. However, in April 2025, TNPA reported further delays to the Ports Regulator, citing concerns over Transnet’s financial stability. A ministerial Task Team is now working on a plan to complete corporatisation without harming Transnet’s finances.
View DetailsIs it working?
Corporatisation is not yet in place, so its impact cannot be measured. Continued delays - now extended to at least September 2025 - have raised doubts about TNPA’s legal status, with some arguing that contracts signed since 2006 could be challenged as the authority still operates as a division, not a subsidiary as the law requires. The immediate risk is prolonged regulatory limbo that deters investment and delays broader logistics sector reforms, requiring urgent ministerial intervention to either resolve the financial blockages or redesign the corporatisation model.
Actions
•The National Ports Act of 2005 was enacted, providing the legal mandate •Presidential announcement and ministerial approval were secured •Transnet Board has approved disposal plans for non-core assets as part of the process •The Ports Regulator has developed regulatory frameworks and methodologies •A ministerial Task Team has been appointed to address financial sustainability concerns •Work is underway on the Memorandum of Incorporation and registration documentation.
Are there plans?
Yes, forms part of freight logistics roadmap and OV2.0. In May 2025, after missing the April deadline, the Minister of Transport has appointed a task team to find solutions that protect Transnet's financial sustainability but no new timeline has been established. Technical preparations continue with the Memorandum of Incorporation under development and asset disposal plans approved, though Transnet has yet to finalise its non-core asset list.
Is it on the agenda?
Corporatisation remains firmly on the agenda, backed by the Sona framework, Operation Vulindlela, the Freight Logistics Roadmap and National Treasury’s conditions for Transnet guarantees. The legal framework exists, the Ports Regulator has set asset valuation rules and tariff methods and Transnet is preparing the Memorandum of Incorporation and registration. The Transnet Board has approved disposal of non-core assets to support the shift.
Goals
The corporatisation of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) aims to make it financially independent, generate its own revenue and attract investment to boost port efficiency and trade competitiveness. Separating the port owner and operator into distinct subsidiaries shou is intended to strengthen TNPA’s regulatory oversight, foster private sector competition, cut costs and lift South African export competitiveness.
References
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Mandated by the National Ports Act of 2005, corporatisation has stalled for nearly 20 years. President Ramaphosa revived it in June 2021, with a target for completion by April 2025. However, in April 2025, TNPA reported further delays to the Ports Regulator, citing concerns over Transnet’s financial stability. A ministerial Task Team is now working on a plan to complete corporatisation without harming Transnet’s finances.
View DetailsIs it working?
Corporatisation is not yet in place, so its impact cannot be measured. Continued delays have raised doubts about TNPA’s legal status, with some arguing that contracts signed since 2006 could be challenged as the authority still operates as a division, not a subsidiary as the law requires. The immediate risk is prolonged regulatory limbo that deters investment and delays broader logistics sector reforms, requiring urgent ministerial intervention to either resolve the financial blockages or redesign the corporatisation model.
Actions
•The National Ports Act of 2005 was enacted, providing the legal mandate •Presidential announcement and ministerial approval were secured •Transnet Board has approved disposal plans for non-core assets as part of the process •The Ports Regulator has developed regulatory frameworks and methodologies •A ministerial Task Team has been appointed to address financial sustainability concerns •Work is under way on the memorandum of incorporation and registration documentation.
Are there plans?
Yes, forms part of freight logistics roadmap and OV2.0. In May 2025, after missing the April deadline, the Minister of Transport has appointed a task team to find solutions that protect Transnet's financial sustainability but no new timeline has been established. Technical preparations continue with the memorandum of incorporation under development and asset disposal plans approved, though Transnet has yet to finalise its non-core asset list.
Is it on the agenda?
Corporatisation remains firmly on the agenda, backed by the Sona framework, Operation Vulindlela, the Freight Logistics Roadmap and National Treasury’s conditions for Transnet guarantees. The legal framework exists, the Ports Regulator has set asset valuation rules and tariff methods and Transnet is preparing the memorandum of incorporation and registration. The Transnet Board has approved disposal of non-core assets to support the shift.
Goals
The corporatisation of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) aims to make it financially independent, generate its own revenue and attract investment to boost port efficiency and trade competitiveness. Separating the port owner and operator into distinct subsidiaries is intended to strengthen TNPA’s regulatory oversight, foster private sector competition, cut costs and lift South African export competitiveness.
References
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Mandated by the National Ports Act of 2005, corporatisation has stalled for nearly 20 years. President Ramaphosa revived it in June 2021, with a target for completion by April 2025. However, in April 2025, TNPA reported further delays to the Ports Regulator, citing concerns over Transnet’s financial stability. A ministerial Task Team is now working on a plan to complete corporatisation without harming Transnet’s finances.
View DetailsIs it working?
Corporatisation is not yet in place, so its impact cannot be measured. Continued delays have raised doubts about TNPA’s legal status, with some arguing that contracts signed since 2006 could be challenged as the authority still operates as a division, not a subsidiary as the law requires. The immediate risk is prolonged regulatory limbo that deters investment and delays broader logistics sector reforms, requiring urgent ministerial intervention to either resolve the financial blockages or redesign the corporatisation model.
Actions
•The National Ports Act of 2005 was enacted, providing the legal mandate •Presidential announcement and ministerial approval were secured •Transnet Board has approved disposal plans for non-core assets as part of the process •The Ports Regulator has developed regulatory frameworks and methodologies •A ministerial Task Team has been appointed to address financial sustainability concerns •Work is under way on the memorandum of incorporation and registration documentation.
Are there plans?
Yes, forms part of freight logistics roadmap and OV2.0. In May 2025, after missing the April deadline, the Minister of Transport has appointed a task team to find solutions that protect Transnet's financial sustainability but no new timeline has been established. Technical preparations continue with the memorandum of incorporation under development and asset disposal plans approved, though Transnet has yet to finalise its non-core asset list.
Is it on the agenda?
Corporatisation remains firmly on the agenda, backed by the Sona framework, Operation Vulindlela, the Freight Logistics Roadmap and National Treasury’s conditions for Transnet guarantees. The legal framework exists, the Ports Regulator has set asset valuation rules and tariff methods and Transnet is preparing the memorandum of incorporation and registration. The Transnet Board has approved disposal of non-core assets to support the shift.
Goals
The corporatisation of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) aims to make it financially independent, generate its own revenue and attract investment to boost port efficiency and trade competitiveness. Separating the port owner and operator into distinct subsidiaries is intended to strengthen TNPA’s regulatory oversight, foster private sector competition, cut costs and lift South African export competitiveness.
References
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Mandated by the National Ports Act of 2005, corporatisation has stalled for nearly 20 years. President Ramaphosa revived it in June 2021, with a target for completion by April 2025. However, in April 2025, TNPA reported further delays to the Ports Regulator, citing concerns over Transnet’s financial stability. A ministerial Task Team is now working on a plan to complete corporatisation without harming Transnet’s finances.
View DetailsIs it working?
Corporatisation is not yet in place, so its impact cannot be measured. Continued delays have raised doubts about TNPA’s legal status, with some arguing that contracts signed since 2006 could be challenged as the authority still operates as a division, not a subsidiary as the law requires. The immediate risk is prolonged regulatory limbo that deters investment and delays broader logistics sector reforms, requiring urgent ministerial intervention to either resolve the financial blockages or redesign the corporatisation model.
Actions
•The National Ports Act of 2005 was enacted, providing the legal mandate •Presidential announcement and ministerial approval were secured •Transnet Board has approved disposal plans for non-core assets as part of the process •The Ports Regulator has developed regulatory frameworks and methodologies •A ministerial Task Team has been appointed to address financial sustainability concerns •Work is under way on the memorandum of incorporation and registration documentation.
Are there plans?
Yes, forms part of freight logistics roadmap and OV2.0. In May 2025, after missing the April deadline, the Minister of Transport has appointed a task team to find solutions that protect Transnet's financial sustainability but no new timeline has been established. Technical preparations continue with the memorandum of incorporation under development and asset disposal plans approved, though Transnet has yet to finalise its non-core asset list.
Is it on the agenda?
Corporatisation remains firmly on the agenda, backed by the Sona framework, Operation Vulindlela, the Freight Logistics Roadmap and National Treasury’s conditions for Transnet guarantees. The legal framework exists, the Ports Regulator has set asset valuation rules and tariff methods and Transnet is preparing the memorandum of incorporation and registration. The Transnet Board has approved disposal of non-core assets to support the shift.
Goals
The corporatisation of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) aims to make it financially independent, generate its own revenue and attract investment to boost port efficiency and trade competitiveness. Separating the port owner and operator into distinct subsidiaries is intended to strengthen TNPA’s regulatory oversight, foster private sector competition, cut costs and lift South African export competitiveness.
References
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Mandated by the National Ports Act of 2005, corporatisation has stalled for nearly 20 years. President Ramaphosa revived it in June 2021, targeting completion by April 2025. At that time, however, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) reported further delays to the Ports Regulator in April 2025, citing concerns over Transnet's financial stability, and a ministerial task team was appointed to find a way through without harming Transnet's finances.
In April 2026, TNPA issued an RFP for a three-month review of its treasury requirements as a standalone entity, covering a gap analysis of current operations, an insource/outsource/hybrid recommendation and a treasury management system framework. Mohammed Abdool was confirmed as TNPA chief executive from 1 May 2026. At that stage both section 3 (subsidiary) and section 4 (public company) incorporation options under the National Ports Act remained live, alongside Transnet's parallel PFMA pre-notification for TRIM as a subsidiary.
On 1 September 2026, the transport and finance ministers agreed to put a Cabinet memo on TNPA and broader logistics reform through. At its meeting on 23 September 2026, Cabinet supported the separation of TNPA to operate as a stand-alone company owned directly by the state, replacing the 2021 model of a wholly owned Transnet subsidiary. Cabinet approved that TNPA investigate the feasibility of a minority equity partner from one of the country's development finance institutions. It set the principles for separation: fair compensation for Transnet based on an independently assessed valuation of TNPA; long-term financial sustainability; an equitable allocation of liabilities between the Transnet group and TNPA; protection of employees and customers; preservation of strategic state ownership and control of national ports infrastructure; and improved investment capability. The statement set no timeline and named no development finance institution. National Treasury has told both ministers it will not fund the transaction.
Is it working?
Corporatisation is not yet in place, so its effect cannot be measured. Cabinet's 23 September 2026 decision settles the ownership model but not the terms of separation. The independent valuation, the allocation of liabilities between TNPA and the Transnet group and the development finance institution feasibility study remain outstanding, with no published timeline. Treasury has ruled out fiscal support, which leaves the source of Transnet's compensation unresolved. Continued delay has raised doubts about TNPA's legal status, with some arguing that contracts signed since 2006 could be challenged, since the authority still operates as a division rather than a separate entity as the law requires.
Actions
The National Ports Act of 2005 was enacted, providing the legal mandate
Presidential announcement and ministerial approval were secured
Transnet Board has approved disposal plans for non-core assets
The Ports Regulator has developed regulatory frameworks and methodologies
A ministerial task team has been appointed to address financial sustainability concerns
TNPA issued an RFP in April 2026 for a three-month treasury requirements review as a standalone entity
Mohammed Abdool was confirmed as TNPA chief executive from 1 May 2026
Transnet submitted parallel PFMA pre-notification for TRIM as a subsidiary
The transport and finance ministers agreed on 1 September 2026 to submit a cabinet memo on TNPA and broader logistics reform
Cabinet supported the separation of TNPA as a stand-alone company owned directly by the state on 23 September 2026
Cabinet approved that TNPA investigate the feasibility of a minority equity partner from a development finance institution
Cabinet set principles for separation, including fair compensation for Transnet on an independent valuation and an equitable allocation of liabilities
Are there plans?
Yes, forms part of the freight logistics roadmap and OV2.0. After missing the April 2025 deadline, the Minister of Transport appointed a task team in May 2025 to protect Transnet's financial sustainability. On 23 September 2026, Cabinet adopted the ownership model (a stand-alone company owned directly by the state) and the principles on which separation will proceed. No implementation timeline has been published. Technical preparation continues and asset disposal plans are approved. The plan's biggest gap is funding: Treasury will not support the transaction, and the alternative (TNPA-raised debt plus a development finance institution minority stake or other equity) has no confirmed structure or timeline.
Is it on the agenda?
Corporatisation remains firmly on the agenda, backed by Operation Vulindlela, the Freight Logistics Roadmap and National Treasury's conditions for Transnet guarantees. The Ports Regulator has set asset valuation rules and tariff methods. On 1 September 2026, the transport and finance ministers agreed to put a Cabinet memo through covering TNPA and the wider logistics reforms. On 23 September 2026, Cabinet supported TNPA's separation as a stand-alone state-owned company.
Goals
The corporatisation of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) aims to make it financially independent, generate its own revenue and attract investment to boost port efficiency and trade competitiveness. Separating the port owner and operator into distinct subsidiaries is intended to strengthen TNPA’s regulatory oversight, foster private sector competition, cut costs and lift South African export competitiveness.
References
Departments / Govt Institutions
Summary
Mandated by the National Ports Act of 2005, corporatisation had stalled for nearly 20 years. President Ramaphosa revived it in June 2021, targeting completion by April 2025. At that time, however, the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) reported further delays to the Ports Regulator in April 2025, citing concerns over Transnet's financial stability, and a ministerial task team was appointed to find a way through without harming Transnet's finances.
In April 2026, TNPA issued an RFP for a three-month review of its treasury requirements as a standalone entity, covering a gap analysis of current operations, an insource/outsource/hybrid recommendation and a treasury management system framework. Mohammed Abdool was confirmed as TNPA chief executive from 1 May 2026. At that stage both section 3 (subsidiary) and section 4 (public company) incorporation options under the National Ports Act remained live, alongside Transnet's parallel PFMA pre-notification for TRIM as a subsidiary.
On 1 September 2026, the transport and finance ministers agreed to put a Cabinet memo on TNPA and broader logistics reform through. At its meeting on 23 September 2026, Cabinet supported the separation of TNPA to operate as a standalone company owned directly by the state, replacing the 2021 model of a wholly owned Transnet subsidiary. Cabinet approved that TNPA investigate the feasibility of a minority equity partner from one of the country's development finance institutions. It set the principles for separation: fair compensation for Transnet based on an independently assessed valuation of TNPA; long-term financial sustainability; an equitable allocation of liabilities between the Transnet group and TNPA; protection of employees and customers; preservation of strategic state ownership and control of national ports infrastructure; and improved investment capability. The statement set no timeline and named no development finance institution. National Treasury has told both ministers it will not fund the transaction.
Is it working?
Corporatisation is not yet in place, so its effect cannot be measured. Cabinet's 23 September 2026 decision settles the ownership model but not the terms of separation. The independent valuation, the allocation of liabilities between TNPA and the Transnet group and the development finance institution feasibility study remain outstanding, with no published timeline. Treasury has ruled out fiscal support, which leaves the source of Transnet's compensation unresolved. Continued delay has raised doubts about TNPA's legal status, with some arguing that contracts signed since 2006 could be challenged because the authority still operates as a division rather than a separate entity as the law requires.
Actions
The National Ports Act of 2005 was enacted, providing the legal mandate.
Presidential announcement and ministerial approval were secured.
Transnet Board has approved disposal plans for non-core assets.
The Ports Regulator has developed regulatory frameworks and methodologies.
A ministerial task team has been appointed to address financial sustainability concerns.
TNPA issued an RFP in April 2026 for a three-month treasury requirements review as a standalone entity.
Mohammed Abdool was confirmed as TNPA chief executive from 1 May 2026.
Transnet submitted parallel PFMA pre-notification for TRIM as a subsidiary.
The transport and finance ministers agreed on 1 September 2026 to submit a cabinet memo on TNPA and broader logistics reform.
Cabinet supported the separation of TNPA as a standalone company owned directly by the state on 23 September 2026.
Cabinet approved that TNPA investigate the feasibility of a minority equity partner from a development finance institution
Cabinet set principles for separation, including fair compensation for Transnet on an independent valuation and an equitable allocation of liabilities
Are there plans?
Yes, forms part of the freight logistics roadmap and OV2.0. After missing the April 2025 deadline, the transport minister appointed a task team in May 2025 to protect Transnet's financial sustainability. On 23 September 2026, Cabinet adopted the ownership model (a standalone company owned directly by the state) and the principles on which separation will proceed. No implementation timeline has been published.
Technical preparation continues and asset disposal plans are approved. The plan's biggest gap is funding: Treasury will not support the transaction, and the alternative (TNPA-raised debt plus a development finance institution minority stake or other equity) has no confirmed structure or timeline.
Is it on the agenda?
Corporatisation remains firmly on the agenda, backed by Operation Vulindlela, the Freight Logistics Roadmap and National Treasury's conditions for Transnet guarantees. The Ports Regulator has set asset valuation rules and tariff methods. On 1 September 2026, the transport and finance ministers agreed to put a Cabinet memo through covering TNPA and the wider logistics reforms. On 23 September 2026, Cabinet supported TNPA's separation as a standalone state-owned company.
Goals
The corporatisation of Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) aims to make it financially independent, generate its own revenue and attract investment to boost port efficiency and trade competitiveness. Separating the port owner and operator into distinct subsidiaries is intended to strengthen TNPA’s regulatory oversight, foster private sector competition, cut costs and lift South African export competitiveness.
References
Departments / Govt Institutions