A good week for Michelle Phillips

Durban, 16 October 2025 – Transnet CEO Michelle Phillips secured a major legal victory this week after the Durban High Court ruled in favour of the state-owned company’s plan to modernise a key section of South Africa’s busiest port. The ruling clears the path for International Container Terminal Services (ICTSI), a Filipino-based company, to proceed as the preferred bidder for the harbour upgrade and port management project.

The project had faced significant delays after APM Terminals, a rival bidder owned by Danish shipping giant Maersk, filed an interdict challenging Transnet’s decision to award the contract to ICTSI. The legal dispute temporarily halted implementation, leaving a crucial infrastructure project in limbo. The court’s decision now allows Transnet to move forward with its plans, providing clarity and certainty for stakeholders involved.

Phillips described the ruling as a “critical step forward” for the port and the broader South African economy. “This decision allows us to begin essential upgrades that will increase Durban’s capacity and efficiency, strengthening its role as a key gateway for trade in the region,” she said.

The harbour upgrade project is expected to have far-reaching economic and operational benefits. Transnet has outlined plans to improve cargo handling systems, expand berthing facilities, and implement advanced terminal management technologies. These improvements aim to reduce congestion, streamline operations, and improve turnaround times for shipping companies, making Durban more competitive as a regional and international trading hub.

The legal challenge by APM Terminals highlighted the highly competitive nature of port contracts and the importance of transparency and due process in awarding infrastructure projects. ICTSI, the awarded bidder, has extensive experience in terminal management across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, and its appointment is expected to bring international best practices to Durban’s operations.

Economic analysts have noted that the port upgrades could stimulate job creation, attract additional investment, and support South Africa’s broader trade objectives. With Durban handling the bulk of the country’s container traffic, efficient port operations are crucial for supply chain reliability and for maintaining South Africa’s position in global trade networks.

With the high court’s ruling, Transnet and ICTSI can now proceed with implementing the upgrades, signalling renewed momentum for one of the nation’s most strategically important infrastructure projects. Stakeholders, from shipping companies to local businesses, are watching closely as the improvements promise to unlock new trade opportunities and enhance South Africa’s competitive edge in global logistics.