SAAFF - Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders NPC

17/06/2026

The release of the World Bank and S&P Global Container Port Performance Index (CPPI) 2025 highlights encouraging improvements across several South African container ports, including Durban, Ngqura and Port Elizabeth.

While these gains deserve recognition, the CPPI represents only one dimension of port performance. As a vessel-time-in-port indicator, it provides valuable insight into operational efficiency but does not capture the broader range of factors that influence logistics performance, including cargo dwell time, landside operations, rail and road connectivity, cost, reliability, and cargo-owner outcomes.

In this opinion piece, Dr Jacob van Rensburg, Head of Research and Industry Intelligence at SAAFF, explores the importance of data visibility, structured industry collaboration, and a more comprehensive approach to measuring South Africa's port and logistics performance.

The latest CPPI results should be welcomed as a positive indicator of progress, while also serving as a reminder of the need for deeper performance measurement across the entire logistics ecosystem.

Read the full article on the SAAFF website: https://saaff.org.za/what-the-rankings-dont-tell-us/

10/06/2026

SAAFF Invitation to an Online Workshop

The Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) cordially invites SAAFF Members to an exclusive online workshop presented by SAAFF's Legal Advisor.

DATE
Thursday, 16 July 2026
TIME
09h00 - 10h30

PLATFORM
Microsoft Teams

WORKSHOP TOPIC
The Financial Intelligence Centre Act (F**A):
Are Freight Forwarders and Customs Brokers Accountable Institutions?

PRESENTED BY
Mr William Fullard
SAAFF's Legal Advisor
Fullard Mayer Morrison Inc.

Drawing on his legal opinion prepared for SAAFF, Mr Fullard will provide an overview of the evolving regulatory landscape and discuss the implications of the Financial Intelligence Centre Act for freight forwarders and customs brokers.

KEY DISCUSSION POINTS
- The scope and purpose of the Financial Intelligence Centre Act (F**A);
- The concept of accountable institutions and associated compliance obligations;
- The interpretation of "carrying on the business of a credit provider";
- The impact of finance and facility fees, disbursements and trade finance activities;
- Which SAAFF members may be required to register as accountable institutions;
- Practical considerations for members navigating the current regulatory environment;
- Questions and Answers - Members.

RSVP
[email protected]
Your confirmation will help us ensure an engaging and relevant session for all participants.

Contact Details
Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF)
📞 011 455 1728
✉️ [email protected]
🌐 www.saaff.org.za

05/06/2026

Freight rates could be on the rise as global supply chain pressures continue to increase.

In a recent article published by The Loadstar, SAAFF's Head of Research and Development, Jacob van Rensburg, shared insights into how disruption, congestion and tighter capacity may impact freight rates in the coming weeks.

Read more: https://saaff.org.za/rates-spike-on-horizon-as-pressures-on-liner-networks-tighten/

30/05/2026

⛳ Save the Date! ⛳

Join us for the Annual SAAFF Eastern Cape Golf Day on Thursday, 9 July 2026 at Port Elizabeth Golf Club.

This annual event brings together industry colleagues for a great day of golf, networking and camaraderie, while raising funds in support of a meaningful cause.

Charity Supported: Lakefarm Centre

Read more: https://saaff.org.za/annual-saaff-eastern-cape-golf-day-save-the-date/

29/05/2026

AMIE and SAAFF Hosting the Border Management Authority in Durban

On 25 and 26 May, AMIE and SAAFF hosted the Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), Dr Nakampe Masiapato, and BMA officials in Durban as part of a strategic roadshow initiative.

The visit created an opportunity for meaningful discussions around collaboration, current industry projects, and ways to improve processes across the supply chain.

Delegates also toured cold storage facilities to gain first-hand insight into inspection protocols and operational procedures, while discussing best practices, challenges and opportunities for greater efficiency and compliance.

Strong partnerships between industry and regulatory authorities remain essential in supporting trade and maintaining high standards across the sector.

Read more: https://saaff.org.za/amie-and-saaff-host-border-management-authority-in-durban/

28/05/2026

🌍🚢 South Africa’s oceans are becoming more than just shipping routes. They could become a major driver of sustainable trade, jobs and economic growth.

From greener ports and modern logistics to aquaculture and marine conservation, the country’s 3,000km coastline is evolving in exciting ways. But success depends on getting the balance right between economic growth, sustainability and community inclusion.

The big question: how do we ensure the benefits reach coastal communities and not just major industry players?

Read more here: https://saaff.org.za/south-africas-oceans-new-trade-routes-for-growth/

28/05/2026

🚢 South Africa’s ports may be improving, but the freight industry says we shouldn’t celebrate too soon.

SAAFF has cautiously welcomed Transnet’s reported recovery in vessel traffic during FY2025/26. While this is a positive sign, Dr Jacob van Rensburg from SAAFF says vessel arrivals alone don’t tell the full story.

The bigger questions are:
✅ Is cargo moving more reliably?
✅ Are delays improving?
✅ Is the system becoming more competitive?

Progress is encouraging, but long-term improvements are still needed to ensure South Africa’s logistics network is truly back on track.

Read more here: https://saaff.org.za/freight-industry-welcomes-transnet-port-recovery-but-warns-against-overstating-progress/

25/05/2026

Big news for the transport and logistics sector! 🚛

SAAFF has officially endorsed Truck Test 2026, recognising the event as an important benchmark for evaluating commercial vehicles under real-world operating conditions.

Taking place from 3 to 5 November 2026, Truck Test 2026 will bring together leading truck manufacturers to assess fuel efficiency, safety, productivity and overall performance.

With rising operating costs and growing pressure on transport operators, independent, practical insights have never been more important.

Read more: https://saaff.org.za/saaff-endorses-truck-test-2026/

The Southern African Association of Freight Forwarders (SAAFF) has officially endorsed Truck Test 2026, reinforcing the event’s position as a […]

25/05/2026

Can logistics really be predictable in an increasingly complex world?

In the latest FOCUS on Transport article, Devlyn Naidoo explores five essential takeaways for logisticians, from using data to improve decision-making to thinking more strategically about supply chain challenges.

Some key themes include:

📦 Why data matters more than ever in logistics
📈 How better planning improves predictability
🚛 The importance of purpose-driven supply chain management
💡 Why awareness alone isn’t enough without action

In a fast-changing logistics environment, success depends on more than operational efficiency. It takes insight, adaptability and disciplined ex*****on.

Read the full article:

In an increasingly complex and data-driven supply chain environment, mastering logistics requires more than operational efficiency. Devlyn Naidoo explains that […]

14/05/2026

SAAFF celebrates 105 years of service to the South African logistics industry.

For more than a century, SAAFF has played an important role in supporting freight, trade and supply chain logistics in Southern Africa, helping shape an industry that keeps economies moving and businesses connected.

From the First Conference of the South African Shipping & Forwarding Agents Association in Port Elizabeth (now Gqeberha) in May 1921, to today’s evolving logistics landscape, this milestone reflects the dedication, collaboration and trust of our members throughout the years.

As we honour our founding members and celebrate those who continue to shape our journey, we thank every member, partner and stakeholder who has contributed to SAAFF’s enduring legacy.

Read more and view our special 105-year tribute here: https://saaff.org.za/saaff-celebrates-105-years-of-service-to-south-african-logistics/