TRIM accelerates rail reform with 11 new train operating companies
Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) has concluded Rail Access Agreements with 11 new Train Operating Companies (TOCs), marking a major milestone in South Africa’s rail reform programme. The move signals the transition from policy to implementation, unlocking new investment, increasing network capacity and strengthening collaboration across the logistics sector.
TRIM Advances Rail Reform with New TOCs Onboarded
Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM) has reached a significant milestone in South Africa’s rail reform journey with the successful conclusion of Rail Access Agreements (RAAs) with 11 new Train Operating Companies (TOCs).
The agreements increase the number of active operators on the national rail network from one to 12 and are expected to unlock an additional 24 million tonnes of freight capacity, with the potential to scale to 52 million tonnes over the next five years. This supports the national objective of increasing rail volumes from approximately 180 million tonnes to 250 million tonnes by 2030.
The newly onboarded TOCs include ARC South Africa, The Railway Corporation, MSC, TLD Marine, MENAR, Sharp Logistics, Barberry, Grindrod, Minrail, IRACEMA, Motheo Logistics and Interlinks. Together, they will operate across strategic freight sectors including coal, manganese, containers, fuel and general freight.
From Reform to Implementation
Addressing stakeholders at the event, Transnet executives led by Group Chief Executive Adv Michelle Phillips emphasised that rail reform has moved beyond policy development into practical implementation.
TRIM Chief Executive Moshe Motlohi described the milestone as the creation of “a functional and competitive rail marketplace” that enables meaningful private sector participation and investment.
The implementation of Network Statement Version 3 and the structured slot allocation process has enabled transparent access to rail capacity, while work on Version 4 is at an advanced stage following extensive industry consultation.
Unlocking Capacity Through Open Access
A key development in the reform process has been the introduction of TRIM’s Ad Hoc Slot Allocation process, launched in December 2025, the rules-based mechanism enables operators to apply for rail capacity outside the annual allocation cycle, improving flexibility and responsiveness to market demand.
The process has already unlocked opportunities such as a proposed short-haul service between Cato Ridge and Durban aimed at reducing congestion around the port precinct.
Some TOCs are expected to commence operations before the end of 2026, with additional operators coming online during 2027.
LEASECO to Lower Barriers to Entry
Another major focus of the event was the progress made on the Rolling Stock Leasing Company (LEASECO), which will provide operators with flexible leases for locomotives and wagons, lowering barriers to entry for new TOCs.
Transnet has already identified and assessed more than 500 locomotives and over 17 000 wagons for the platform, while early market demand indicates strong appetite from operators. At least five TOCs have already signed up to source rolling stock through LEASECO.
Executives also confirmed that the Request for Proposal (RFP) process for private sector partners is progressing, with the joint venture expected to support regional growth across South Africa and neighbouring markets.
Engineering and Infrastructure at the Centre
Transnet Engineering reiterated its role as the industrial backbone of the freight rail system through the refurbishment, maintenance and manufacturing of rolling stock.
Executives highlighted the importance of local manufacturing capability, engineering expertise and supplier development in supporting rail reform and broader industrialisation objectives.
TRIM also outlined ongoing investments in signalling systems, condition-monitoring technology and corridor upgrades to improve network reliability and increase capacity across strategic freight routes.
A Shared Commitment to Growth
Speakers repeatedly emphasised that rail reform is not only about Transnet or the private sector, but about enabling economic growth, industrial expansion and regional integration.
The event concluded with a strong message of collaboration and accountability, with Transnet reaffirming its commitment to accelerating reform, enabling private sector participation and building a modern, resilient and competitive rail system for South Africa.
Key Terms
LEASECO
The Rolling Stock Leasing Company (LEASECO) will provide train operators with access to locomotives and wagons through flexible leasing arrangements, helping lower barriers to entry into the rail sector.
Rolling Stock Leasing Company (LEASECO) i do netshedza vhatshimbidzi vha zwidimela thendelo ya u shumisa matorokisi na zwigariki nga u shumisa ndugiselelo dza khadzimo dzi tendelanaho na nyimele, u itela u fhungudza zwithivheli zwa u dzhena kha sekithara ya zwidimela.
Rail Access Agreements (RAAs)
Rail Access Agreements are formal agreements that allow Train Operating Companies to access and operate on South Africa’s national rail network.
Mintwanano yo Nghena ka Switimela i mintwanano ya ximfumo leyi pfumelelaka Tikhamphani to Fambisa Switimela ku nghena ni ku tirha eka netiweke ya swiporo ya tiko ya Afrika Dzonga.
Train Operating Companies (TOCs)
Train Operating Companies (TOCs) are operators authorised to run freight services on the rail network using TRIM infrastructure.
Tinkapane Leticondzisa Kusebenta Kwetitimela (TOCs).Tinkapane leticondzisa kusebenta kwetitimela (TOCs), bacondzisi labagunyatwe kutsi banikete lusito lwetekutfutsa imitfwalo ngetitimela basebentisa imigwaco ye-TRIM.
Rail Reform
Rail reform refers to the transformation of South Africa’s rail sector to improve efficiency, expand access, encourage investment and strengthen economic growth through a more competitive rail system.
Spoorhervorming verwys na die transformasie van Suid-Afrika se spoorsektor om doeltreffendheid te verbeter, beter toegang te gee, belegging aan te moedig en ekonomiese groei te bevorder deur middel van ’n mededingender spoorstelsel.
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