AGL Terminals, part of Africa Global Logistics (AGL), and its partner, BALSA, have announced that they have started operations at A-Berth, Duncan Docks, at the Port of Cape Town, following the completion of a lease agreement with Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA).

The lease agreement, which kicked off on April 1, grants AGL the responsibility of managing A-Berth at Duncan Docks.

There remain three years and seven months on the lease.

The primary focus at A-Berth is containerised and refrigerated cargo.

The majority of the containers will be imports, complemented by a mix of exports and transshipments, says an AGL spokesperson.

The berth operates as a multipurpose terminal and is expected to also handle general cargo in the near future, for which it is already fully equipped, she adds.

AGL says the partnership with TNPA aligns with its global strategy to modernise port operations, and with TNPA’s goal to foster private-sector collaboration in enhancing its port infrastructure.

AGL says it is already moving to elevate A-Berth’s operational performance through investments in technology, handling equipment and a human capital development programme.

These enhancements are aimed at improving cargo-handling efficiency, reducing turnaround times and providing a seamless, modernised experience for port users.

AGL says it is implementing NAVIS as its terminal operating system.

Additionally, it has procured six reach stackers, and is in the process of procuring six terminal trucks.

In terms of staff, the new lease agreement employs a hybrid approach, says the AGL spokesperson, utilising both outsourced and in-house staffing solutions.

“Managing A-Berth at Duncan Docks enables us to reinforce Cape Town’s role as a key trade gateway for South Africa,” says AGL Ports & Terminals CEO Olivier de Noray.

“We are excited to collaborate with TNPA to drive innovation, optimise operations, and unlock new opportunities for the maritime sector and the broader economy.”

Transnet Port Terminals is the waterside operator of choice for A-Berth.

AGL has a portfolio that spans 18 container terminals, seven RoRo/ConRo terminals, and 66 dry ports across various countries.

AGL is a part of the MSC Group, but operates independently and services all shipping lines.

TNPA is responsible for managing South Africa’s eight commercial ports.