Grindrod and Transnet Partner for Historical Milestone with Private Train on Public Tracks
On 3 November 2026, Grindrod and Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM), a division of Transnet, announced the successful launch of its first test train along the North-East Corridor. The inaugural train service marks a historical milestone as it is the first private Train Operating Company to operate on South Africa’s national rail network under the new Open-Access Framework.
The test train started its journey from Komatipoort on 1 November 2026 with an empty carriage, and returned with 2,991 tonnes of coal on 2 November 2026. The inaugural journey was made possible after extensive safety tests and operational coordination to allow non-Transnet trains on the rail.
“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.”
TRIM CEO Moshe Motlohi
“This is an important milestone for Grindrod and for the transformation of South Africa’s freight logistics sector. 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.”
Grindrod CEO Kwazi Mabaso
According to the Rail Access Agreements, Grindrod owns and operates the trains, while Transnet keeps ownership of the rail infrastructure, while allowing private operators on its network. If the Public-Private Partnership (#PPP) is successful, it could mark a turning point in the logistics sector in South Africa, as Transnet struggled to maintain viability.
By demonstrating that the new concept is workable, it opens a new impetus for the modernization of South Africa’s rail systems which is long overdue. So far, TRIM has signed twelve Rail Access Agreements with 12 private Train Operating Companies. In fact, Transnet has set a target of transporting 250 million tonnes of freight by 2030, up from 168 million tonnes for financial year 2025-2026.