Finance

S.Africa's Transnet agrees port equipment deal with Liebherr

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on September 18, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 21, 2026

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S.Africa's Transnet agrees port equipment deal with Liebherr
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(Reuters) -South Africa's logistics company Transnet on Thursday said it has agreed a 10-year partnership deal with German equipment maker Liebherr for the supply of cranes as it seeks to upgrade and

S.Africa's Transnet agrees port equipment deal with Liebherr

Transnet and Liebherr Collaboration Overview

(Reuters) -South Africa's logistics company Transnet on Thursday said it has agreed a 10-year partnership deal with German equipment maker Liebherr for the supply of cranes as it seeks to upgrade and modernise its port operations.

The two parties have also agreed on a 20-year asset management programme, which will see Liebherr provide equipment maintenance, repairs and spares, Transnet said in a statement.

The state-owned Transnet, which operates South Africa's ports and freight rail network, has been struggling to provide adequate services due to under-investment. Its port operations have been hobbled by equipment shortages, often leading to lengthy backlogs that have impacted retailers and exporters.

Details of the Equipment Agreement

"This strategic collaboration empowers us to significantly boost operational efficiency, streamline port logistics, and reduce long-term operational costs," Transnet Port Terminals Chief Executive Officer Jabu Mdaki said.

Impact on South Africa's Port Operations

Transnet said it had already placed substantial orders for Liebherr equipment, including four ship-to-shore (STS) cranes for the Durban port. It has also ordered 48 rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) cranes for the Durban and Cape Town terminals.

(Reporting by Nelson Banya)

Key Takeaways

  • Transnet signs a 10-year deal with Liebherr for crane supply.
  • The agreement includes a 20-year asset management program.
  • Transnet aims to modernize and boost port operations.
  • Orders placed for STS and RTG cranes for Durban and Cape Town.
  • The deal addresses equipment shortages and operational backlogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a partnership?
A partnership is a formal arrangement in which two or more parties agree to manage and operate a business together, sharing profits and responsibilities.
What is equipment maintenance?
Equipment maintenance refers to the process of keeping machinery and equipment in good working condition through regular inspections, repairs, and replacements.
What are port operations?
Port operations involve the management and coordination of activities at a port, including loading and unloading cargo, storage, and transportation logistics.
What is asset management?
Asset management is the systematic process of developing, operating, maintaining, and selling assets in a cost-effective manner.
What is operational efficiency?
Operational efficiency refers to the ability of an organization to deliver products or services in the most cost-effective manner without compromising quality.

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