Grindrod has completed its first test train on Transnet's North-East Corridor, becoming the first private Train Operating Company (TOC) to operate on South Africa's national freight rail network under the open-access framework.
Source: Supplied
The operation departed from Komatipoort, Mpumalanga, on 1 November 2026 with an empty train and returned on 2 November carrying 2,991 tonnes of freight.
The test train follows the signing of Rail Access Agreements with 12 TOCs, including Grindrod, and the completion of the safety, regulatory and operational readiness processes required to enable third-party operations on the network.
Grindrod used its own locomotives and wagons for the operation, demonstrating its readiness to commence services on the corridor.
Commercial operations planned for 2027
The company plans to begin commercial operations in 2027, targeting approximately 288,000 tonnes of freight in its first year.
Using its two allocated slots on the North-East Corridor, the company will primarily transport coal from Mpumalanga to its Matola Terminal in Mozambique.
Future growth will depend on corridor capacity, additional slot allocations and operational efficiencies.
The North-East Corridor connects South Africa's mining and industrial heartland with regional markets and export gateways. The introduction of private operators is intended to improve network utilisation, increase freight volumes transported by rail and strengthen regional trade.
Open-access rail reform
Moshe Motlohi, chief executive of Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (Trim), said the successful test train demonstrated that open access had moved beyond policy into operational implementation.
“The successful completion of this test train is a landmark achievement for South Africa's rail reform programme. It demonstrates that open access is no longer a policy concept but an operational reality. Through collaboration with private operators such as Grindrod, we are creating a more competitive and efficient rail network that supports economic growth and strengthens South Africa's logistics capability.”
Kwazi Mabaso, group chief executive officer of Grindrod Limited, said the test train demonstrated how the company could integrate rail operations with its existing logistics infrastructure.
“As an integrated logistics provider, the ability to combine rail operations with our terminal infrastructure and corridor footprint enables us to deliver greater efficiency, reliability and value to our customers. We are proud to partner with Trim in demonstrating the practical benefits of rail reform and helping restore rail as the backbone of bulk freight transport.”
The successful test train marks progress in expanding private sector participation in South Africa's freight rail network, with open access intended to unlock investment, increase network utilisation and strengthen the country's position as a regional trade and logistics hub.
