By Eamonn Ryan
While port efficiency is a critical component of cold chain performance, rail reform may prove to be the true game-changer for South Africa’s temperature-controlled supply chains. After years of declining reliability, the country’s rail network is now on the cusp of structural change – with implications that extend far beyond bulk commodities. This is part two of a two-part series.
Under South Africa’s open access rail framework, private train operating companies will be permitted to run services on selected freight corridors. For cold chain operators, this could unlock new options for moving refrigerated cargo between production regions, ports and distribution hubs with greater consistency and lower long-term cost.
Open access rail and cold chain opportunities
To date, 11 private train operating companies (TOCs) have been selected and are progressing toward contract finalisation and safety certification. Several are expected to begin operations in the second half of 2026, with additional entrants potentially following in 2027.
The initiative is forecast to increase annual freight volumes by approximately 20 million tonnes, supplementing Transnet Freight Rail’s capacity and supporting government’s goal of increasing rail’s share of freight transport by 2029.
For the cold chain, increased rail capacity presents opportunities to reduce dependence on long-haul road transport, lower emissions, and improve supply chain resilience – particularly for export-oriented agriculture and pharmaceutical products.
Global logistics players enter the picture
Two major logistics multinationals identified in the reform process are Grindrod and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC). Their involvement signals growing private-sector confidence in South Africa’s rail revival and introduces the potential for better integration between port terminals, inland depots and shipping services.
Regulatory clarity and rolling stock investment
Transnet’s Rail Infrastructure Manager continues to refine the regulatory environment, issuing updated network statements and access rules governing third-party use of the national rail network. Invitations for slot applications for the 2026/27 rail timetable are expected later this year.
At the same time, private investment in rolling stock is gathering pace. Companies such as Traxtion have committed hundreds of millions of rands to locomotives and wagons, representing one of the largest private freight rail investments in South African history.
For cold chain stakeholders, these investments matter because rail reliability directly influences temperature stability, lead times and total landed cost.
A cautious reset for cold chain logistics
While systemic risks remain, Saaff and Busa’s outlook suggests that 2026 could mark the start of a functional reset for South Africa’s logistics system. For the cold chain, that reset may translate into fewer disruptions, restored exporter confidence and a stronger platform for growth in demanding global markets.
Taken together, port reform, rail liberalisation and private investment point to a logistics environment that – if execution matches intent – may finally begin to support, rather than undermine, South Africa’s cold chain ambitions.