PUBLISHER: B4SA
This update – the 94th of its kind – contains a consolidated overview of the South African supply chain and the current state of international trade. Newly reported COVID-19 infections declined significantly this week, averaging approximately 469 per day (↓47% against last week’s average of 885). South Africa has recorded 3,99 million positive cases, with the death toll up to 101 793 this week (up by 89). Globally, the case tally stands at 548 million infected by COVID-19, with 6,3 million deaths recorded. Around 12,1 billion vaccine doses have been administered globally , with South Africa now at 36,8 million.
Port operations this past week were characterised by equipment breakdowns, delays in the Cape regions, and road congestion in the KZN region. However, the overall port performance showed a positive trend, with rail at DCT recovering and Pier 1 moving a record number of containers at waterside operations.
Key highlights:
- An average of ~9 131 containers was handled per day, with ~8 915 projected for next week.
- Rail cargo handled out of Durban amounted to 1 261 containers, ↑8% compared to last week.
- This week, cross-border queue times ↓0,4 hours, with transit times ↑2,6 hours (see below).
- The “WCI” declined for the 18th straight week, with spot rates ↓3% (or $220) to $7 066 per 40-ft.
- The RWI/ISL container throughput index increased from 122,1 (revised) to 123,6 points in May.
- Liner schedule reliability improved by ↑2,1% (m/m) to 36,4%, with average late arrivals at 6,17 days.
- South African container terminals all experienced significant improvements in connectivity in Q2 2022.
Port operations:
- Port operations this past week were characterised by equipment breakdowns, delays in the Cape regions, and road congestion in the KZN region.
- However, the overall port performance showed a positive trend, with rail at DCT recovering and Pier 1 moving a record number of containers at waterside operations.
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