Durban Port has been recognised as the world’s most improved container port after a dramatic turnaround in operational performance earned international recognition from the World Bank and S&P Global.
The latest Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) found that Durban Port recorded the biggest year-on-year improvement of any container port globally during 2025, marking a significant milestone for South Africa’s logistics sector after years of congestion and operational challenges.
World Bank Recognises Durban Port’s Turnaround
The latest report shows that Durban Port achieved the highest improvement score among container ports worldwide.
According to the World Bank and S&P Global, the port recorded a 479-point improvement in its performance index during 2025.
Although Durban Port still faces operational challenges compared with many leading international ports, the report says the improvement reflects meaningful progress in reducing delays and improving efficiency.
Waiting Times Reduced Dramatically
One of the biggest improvements at Durban Port has been the reduction in vessel waiting times.
The report states that ships waiting outside the harbour dropped from peaks of 20 vessels during previous congestion periods to zero in 2025.
At the same time, productive berth utilisation increased from approximately 52% to 76%, meaning vessels spent more time loading and unloading cargo instead of waiting offshore.
Investment Driving Better Performance
Much of the improvement at Durban Port has been linked to infrastructure upgrades and operational reforms.
One of the most significant developments was the awarding of a 25-year concession for Durban Container Terminal Pier 2 to International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), which is expected to modernise the facility and increase annual handling capacity from 2 million to 2.8 million TEUs.
Government and Transnet believe these investments will strengthen South Africa’s competitiveness in global trade.
Transnet Reports Strong Growth
The improvement at Durban Port comes as Transnet reports broader gains across South Africa’s port network.
During the 2025/26 financial year:
- More than 300 million tonnes of cargo were handled.
- Vessel traffic increased by 9%.
- Cargo throughput grew by 4.2%.
- Vehicle volumes rose by 13.3%.
Transnet says these are the strongest operational results recorded in more than 15 years.
Why Durban Port Matters
Durban Port is the busiest container port in sub-Saharan Africa.
Each year it:
- Handles around 65% of South Africa’s container traffic.
- Processes more than 86 million tonnes of cargo.
- Serves as a key gateway for imports and exports.
- Supports thousands of jobs across logistics, manufacturing and retail.
Efficient operations at the port play a major role in reducing transport costs and supporting economic growth.
More Upgrades Planned
Despite the recognition, authorities say work at Durban Port is far from complete.
Future plans include:
- Expanding container capacity.
- Deepening harbour infrastructure.
- Modernising equipment.
- Increasing private-sector participation.
- Improving digital logistics systems.
Transnet has also proposed reclaiming land from the sea to further expand container handling capacity in the coming years.
Challenges Still Remain
While Durban Port has achieved the biggest improvement globally, the World Bank cautioned that it still ranks below many international ports in absolute efficiency.
The improvement reflects recovery from a historically poor baseline rather than a position among the world’s top-performing ports.
Industry experts say maintaining progress will require continued investment, reliable equipment and sustained operational reforms.
What This Means for South Africa
A more efficient Durban Port could have significant economic benefits.
Faster cargo handling can:
- Reduce shipping delays.
- Lower logistics costs.
- Improve export competitiveness.
- Attract new investment.
- Strengthen supply chains.
- Support economic growth.
Businesses that rely on imports and exports are expected to benefit if operational improvements continue.
Looking Ahead
The recognition of Durban Port as the world’s most improved container port marks an important milestone for South Africa’s logistics sector.
While challenges remain, the latest World Bank findings suggest that reforms, infrastructure investment and stronger operational management are beginning to produce measurable results.
If the momentum continues, Durban Port could play an increasingly important role in boosting South Africa’s trade competitiveness and supporting long-term economic growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Durban Port recognised?
Durban Port was ranked as the world’s most improved container port after recording the largest year-on-year improvement in the World Bank’s Container Port Performance Index.
What improvements were made?
The port reduced vessel waiting times, increased berth utilisation and benefited from infrastructure upgrades and operational reforms.
Who publishes the rankings?
The rankings are published by the World Bank and S&P Global through the annual Container Port Performance Index.
Why is Durban Port important?
Durban Port handles most of South Africa’s container traffic and plays a critical role in international trade and the national economy.
Will more improvements be made?
Yes. Transnet plans further infrastructure upgrades, capacity expansion and private-sector partnerships to continue improving efficiency.
