EWC backs new logistics body’s focus on tackling border delays and improving trade competitiveness
The newly established South African Freight and Logistics Association is gaining industry support as it positions itself to represent the ground level interests of freight forwarders and logistics operators across South Africa.
With a strong focus on resolving practical challenges such as border delays, permit duplication and valuation disputes, SAFLA aims to address inefficiencies that continue to impact trade and supply chain performance.
Terry Gale, representing the Exporters Western Cape, welcomed the launch of SAFLA and highlighted the importance of collaboration across the logistics value chain.
“The launch of SAFLA is a positive step towards ensuring that the operational realities faced by logistics providers are better represented,” said Gale. “Exporters are directly impacted by inefficiencies in the freight and logistics system. Stronger collaboration across the value chain is essential if we are to improve competitiveness and grow trade.”
Gale pointed to ongoing challenges faced by exporters, including delays at key border posts, rising compliance costs, inconsistent application of regulations and limited predictability in transit times.
“These are not abstract issues – they translate into higher costs, missed market opportunities and reduced reliability for South African exporters operating in highly competitive global markets,” he said.
The endorsement reflects growing recognition of the need for coordinated engagement between industry stakeholders and policymakers to improve logistics efficiency.
Gale noted that SAFLA’s solutions driven approach aligns closely with the needs of exporters and could play a key role in unlocking growth opportunities.
“There is a clear need for more coordinated engagement between industry stakeholders and policymakers. By working together, organisations such as EWC and SAFLA can play a critical role in identifying bottlenecks, advocating for reform and driving greater efficiency across the logistics ecosystem,” he concluded.
As SAFLA begins its work, industry collaboration is expected to be central to addressing systemic challenges and strengthening South Africa’s position in global trade.