Transnet National Ports Authority held an address at the Buffalo City Investment Conference in East London recently, where it reaffirmed its commitment to investing in further development of the Port of East London.
Port manager Sharon Sijako said the port covered 1.3-million square metres and had an asset base of R3.3bn.
“The Port of East London remains a vibrant trade gateway that is involved in all sectors of the economy,” Sijako said.
“The port is geared to support the city’s positioning as a manufacturing hub.”
TNPA has a number of projects under way relating to East London’s port, including refurbishing the dry docks, reconstructing Quay 3 and replacing the Buffalo Bridge.
The port serves a vital economic role, handling the import and export of several key commodities.
These include automotive components and vehicles, liquid bulk fuel and dry bulk grains like wheat and maize.
“We as the port have raised the case for expansion of our automotive terminal, maritime engineering and maritime commercial activities in the ship repair precinct.
“We are well aware the potential to grow volumes and expand business at the port hinges on our ability to accommodate larger vessels through deepening and widening of the entrance channel with related berths and terminals,” Sijako said.
