Trim opens 20 rail sidings to private-sector investment

Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (Trim) has opened 20 rail sidings across South Africa to private-sector participation through a 10-year Request for Proposals (RFP), as it seeks to improve asset utilisation and support the country’s rail reform agenda.

9 Sep 2026

Source: jplenio1 via Magnific

The RFP covers the leasing, investment, development, operation and maintenance of the rail sidings, with successful bidders required to undertake refurbishments, upgrades, maintenance and operational improvements.

20 rail sidings open for bids

The sidings being offered to the market are:

Central and Eastern regions: Krugersdorp, Pyramid South, Ngagane, Hlobane, Panbult, Rietkuil, Carolina, Klaserie, Mica, Pienaarsrivier, Bela Bela, Marikana (A), Marikana (B), Marikana (C).

Western region: Bellville Autosort, Lutzville Station, Putsonderwater, Worcester, Upington and Orchard.

The RFP will close on 30 November 2026.

Rail asset development

The programme forms part of Trim’s efforts to unlock value from rail assets through structured private-sector participation. It focuses on the commercialisation of rail siding assets, including land, rail infrastructure and associated buildings.

The initiative also supports South Africa’s rail reform agenda and TRIM’s mandate to enable open access to the national rail network.

It aims to improve asset utilisation, enhance service delivery and support the long-term sustainability of rail infrastructure.

Moshe Motlohi, CEO of Trim, said: “This programme reflects Trim's commitment to transparent, market-driven access to strategic rail assets. By partnering with the private sector, we aim to improve service delivery, strengthen industry collaboration and unlock sustainable economic value across South Africa's rail network."

Interested parties can access the RFP documentation on the National Treasury eTender Portal or the Transnet supplier portal.