Dube Cargo Terminal at King Shaka International Airport in South Africa has reported a 7 per cent increase in air cargo volumes over the past year, reflecting continued recovery in KwaZulu-Natal's airfreight sector. The terminal recorded strong demand between September and December 2023 following the decline seen in 2020.
The increase has been driven by higher perishable export volumes and a gradual shift from sea to air transport for high-value goods, including automotive components. Cargo throughput grew by more than 5 per cent year on year, reaching 14,424 tons in the previous financial year.
According to Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone spokesperson Vincent Zwane, volumes have continued to rise in the current period from April 2024 to March 2025, with 15,429 tons handled through the Dube Cargo Terminal. "This performance has been supported by the rise of specialised air charters and an expanded demand for airfreight by the perishables sector, particularly in fruit and meat exports, destined for markets in Europe and the Middle East," he said.
Zwane noted that increased air connectivity in Durban has strengthened the terminal's capacity to support exporters in time-sensitive categories.
To support further airfreight growth, Dube TradePort has invested in bonded and cold storage facilities, bonded trucking, and expanded airline route development through Durban Direct. Zwane said these investments have improved handling capabilities for specialised and time-sensitive shipments and aim to support South Africa's role in regional and global supply chains.
Source: SA News
