Welcome to the highlights edition of the Sassda GPS eNewsletter, your go-to source for key developments shaping South Africa’s business, industrial, and economic landscape. Each month we distribute this popular market intelligence aggregator to an exclusive database of members and associates. This selection of the best articles from the last quarter, aims to extend access to this quality content by prioritising the top stories from the latest issues…
Transnet Opens Bids for 25-Year Cape Town Liquid Bulk Terminal Concession
Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has issued a request for proposals to appoint a private operator for a liquid bulk terminal at the Port of Cape Town under a 25-year concession agreement. The project includes the financing, operation, refurbishment and possible expansion of the existing brownfield facility, which is aimed at strengthening bunkering services, improving infrastructure efficiency and supporting regional fuel supply…
Rail master plan outlines R2 trillion vision
Government’s long-term rail master plan is set to cost nearly R2 trillion over the next 30 years, reflecting the scale of ambition to modernise South Africa’s freight and passenger networks. The plan focuses on revitalising rail infrastructure, improving logistics efficiency and reducing pressure on road transport…
Steel import duties raise supply concerns
New import duties on certain steel products are raising concerns about potential supply constraints and rising costs for downstream industries. While aimed at protecting local producers, the measures may have unintended consequences for construction and manufacturing…
R20bn Cape airport boom set to lift Western Cape aviation capacity
More than R20-billion in airport investment is poised to reshape Cape Town’s aviation landscape, with ACSA planning an estimated R11.3-billion upgrade of Cape Town International Airport while the privately owned Cape Winelands Airport prepares for an R8-billion to R10-billion development near Durbanville. The projects aim to support rising passenger demand, improve airport capacity and unlock broader regional economic activity...
Solar industry warns against proposed blanket solar tax
The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) has cautioned against the introduction of a broad solar import tax, warning that poorly targeted measures could slow renewable energy adoption, raise costs for businesses and households, and undermine the country’s energy transition goals. The industry body argues that while localisation remains important, policy interventions should support longterm industry growth without constraining solar deployment at a time of ongoing energy security concerns...
Smelter shutdown risk highlights energy crisis
Another smelter is threatening shutdown due to crippling electricity prices, underscoring ongoing pressure on energy intensive industries. High costs and supply challenges continue to impact production and competitiveness, raising concerns about job losses and industrial decline...
Major automotive investment planned
A leading Indian company has announced a R600 billion upgrade plan for its South African manufacturing facility. The investment is expected to boost local production capacity, support job creation and strengthen the country’s automotive sector…
AfCFTA shifts toward operational trade system
The African Continental Free Trade Area is transitioning from policy framework to practical implementation, although persistent frictions remain. Progress in optimizing trade systems is expected to unlock new regional opportunities, despite ongoing logistical and regulatory challenges...
UAE firm eyes rail operations in South Africa
A United Arab Emirates-based company has unveiled a R2.8 billion plan to operate trains in South Africa, signalling growing private sector interest in the country’s rail network. The move aligns with broader efforts to improve efficiency and attract investment into logistics infrastructure…
Massive private investment drive announced
Government has announced a major private investment drive aimed at unlocking infrastructure development and boosting economic growth. The initiative focuses on creating an enabling environment for investors while accelerating project rollout across key sectors…