The national lockdown in South Africa has brought about vulnerability in the transport industry. The economic challenges and opportunities that are unique worldwide during the pandemic that has contributed to the shift in how people send and receive products. In addition to having to adapt to the 4th industrial revolution that has essentially moved everything to a digital state. This has an impact on how ports operate in the “New normal”.
The Disaster Management Act of 2002 was amended to allow for the transportation of essential goods. The movement of cargo from ports of entry to their intended destination; and the export of cargo currently at ports of entry. Suppliers moving both essential and non-essential goods from South African ports of entry will face challenges as only critical service providers may take delivery of goods during the lockdown. Although the amended Regulations now allow non-essential products, there is still likely to be a backlog and congestion at ports. Due to South African suppliers of non-essential products currently being closed and unable to take delivery of their “non-essential items”.
On 23 April 2020, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the phased lockdown approach. As the country eases into the lower levels, the position concerning the movement of goods changes and essential goods will take priority at ports of entry.
