Private sector participation prioritised in new TNPA marine economy strategy

Private sector investment in Port infrastructure projects is one of several key strategic priorities of a newly-approved national Ship Repair and Marine Manufacturing Strategy. 

The ten-year strategy (2025-35) is outlined in a milestone document approved late last month following industry consultations. It aims to bolster the maritime sector to the tune or R10,05-billion in public and private investment, generating a projected R18,06 billion in business opportunities. 

“The Strategy aligns with national imperatives such as the Oceans Economy Master Plan, Operation Phakisa and the National Ports Act,” Transnet National Ports Authority acting chief executive Adv Phyllis Difeto said in a statement. “It is designed to reposition South African ports as globally competitive centres for ship repair and marine manufacturing.” 

“This strategic milestone marks a new era for South Africa’s maritime infrastructure and industrial development,” Difeto said. 

Other key strategic priorities identified in the document include:  

-- infrastructure renewal and expansion 

-- operational excellence through centralisation, standardisation and automation of the booking and docking systems 

-- transformation and socio-economic impact and enhanced B-BBEE and black ownership 

-- strategic market positioning to capture a larger share of the African and global ship repair market 

Industry stakeholders said while the strategy looked good on paper, the test would be successful implementation.