Transnet SOC Ltd has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with Port of Antwerp-Bruges International and the Antwerp/Flanders Port Training Center.
The agreement was concluded on 22 January 2026 on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos.
According to the joint statement, the partnership “signifies a major milestone in efforts to modernise South Africa’s port system, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen regional trade competitiveness.”
The MoU establishes cooperation in port operations, digitalisation, sustainability, infrastructure planning, and corridor development.
The scope of collaboration includes managerial, operational, strategic, and governance advisory support, sustainability strategy and policy related to energy and social transitions, port operations and digitalisation, corridor development and foreign investment programmes, as well as training and institutional capacity strengthening.
The agreement also references cooperation on hinterland corridor development and engagement with global investment initiatives, including opportunities linked to the EU Global Gateway strategy, which focuses on mobilising investment into sustainable infrastructure worldwide.
Transnet Group Chief Executive Michelle Phillips said the partnership comes “at a critical time as we accelerate the modernisation of our ports and strengthen South Africa’s position in regional and global trade.”
She added that “our Reinvent for Growth Strategy seeks to modernise, expand and optimise our ports through strategic investments and partnerships,” positioning the MoU within Transnet’s broader reform programme.
From the Belgian side, Kristof Waterschoot, Managing Director of PoABI and APEC, described the agreement as a renewal of an established relationship.
“In a new and evolved port landscape, we will collaborate on trending topics like energy transition and decarbonisation whilst still embracing the classic topics like operational efficiency and port logistics,” he said.
Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, noted that “this MOU marks an exciting new chapter as we renew our partnership with Transnet, one built on trust, shared vision, and ambition for progress.”
He added that the parties are committed to building capacity and sharing expertise in the port sector, with a strong focus on sustainability and energy transition.
A Joint Monitoring Committee will be established to oversee the implementation of the MoU and monitor progress across agreed workstreams.
The agreement formalises structured cooperation aimed at improving operational performance, strengthening institutional capability, and supporting the long-term modernisation of South Africa’s port system.
