| Cape Town Port ranks as worst performer globally – urgent call to turn this ship around | Cape Town Port ranks as worst performer globally – urgent call to turn this ship around | | <img alt="" src="https://resource.capetown.gov.za/cityassets/PublishingImages/Budget-Header.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | <p><strong>MEDIA STATEMENT BY THE CITY OF CAPE TOWN'S MAYORAL COMMITTEE MEMBER FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH, ALDERMAN JAMES VOS</strong><br></p><p><strong><strong><em>The Port of Cape Town has been identified in the newly published World Bank Container Port Performance Index 2023</em></strong> <strong><em>as the worst-performing port in the world. This ranking highlights the pressing need for substantial reforms and immediate action.</em></strong><br></strong></p> | <p>The City of Cape Town has consistently advocated for the inclusion of private sector investment and participation in port management and logistics. Transnet must keep the privatisation ball rolling on its April announcement to seek bids for the development and maintenance of a liquid bulk terminal. The inefficiencies at our port not only impede the flow of goods but also significantly hamper our economic growth. The port is a crucial nexus for the products and services of the private sector, and its performance directly impacts our economy.</p><p> <br></p><p>The City's Economic Growth Directorate along with our strategic business partners in various sectors, is doing everything possible to help companies improve their productivity and enhance access to markets. However, despite these efforts, we face significant challenges as goods struggle to get through the port. We are constantly working on ways to increase demand and supply that benefit our economy, only to see these efforts hindered by the port's inefficiencies.</p><p> </p><p>The integration of private sector expertise and resources is not just a potential solution - it is a necessary step. Private sector involvement can bring fresh perspectives, innovative solutions, and more efficient operational practices. According to research from the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism, private sector participation at the Port of Cape Town could result in an additional R6 billion in exports, the creation of approximately 20 000 direct and indirect jobs, and over R1,6 billion in additional tax revenues within five years.</p><p> <br></p><p>The types of products affected by the port's performance are diverse and critical to our economy, such as agricultural goods, manufactured products, and high-value exports like wine and seafood. The efficient movement of these goods is essential for maintaining Cape Town's competitive edge in global markets.</p><p> </p><p>This harbour is integral to our economic growth mission. I am calling for an urgent meeting with the National Government and key stakeholders to expedite the expanded process of private sector participation in our port. Our city cannot afford delays. We need action now to ensure a prosperous future for Cape Town and its people.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p><strong>End</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p><br></p> | 2024-06-06T22:00:00Z | GP0|#1d539e44-7c8c-4646-887d-386dc1d95d70;L0|#01d539e44-7c8c-4646-887d-386dc1d95d70|City news;GTSet|#62efe227-07aa-45e7-944c-ceebacca891d | | | | | GP0|#f7a3f52d-f4ca-4fa3-ab52-42c962625329;L0|#0f7a3f52d-f4ca-4fa3-ab52-42c962625329|port of cape town;GTSet|#2e3de6c1-9951-4747-8f53-470629a399bb;GP0|#1b669784-34ab-4494-8fc7-660928493945;L0|#01b669784-34ab-4494-8fc7-660928493945|rating agency;GTSet|#2e3de6c1-9951-4747-8f53-470629a399bb;GPP|#48e0e38b-91f5-4e36-ad79-64295ca988b3;GPP|#8e413e74-7ca0-4014-bda4-166eae285168 | 1 | | | | | | | | | | | 0 |
