South African Freight and Logistics Association launches a new operational platform focused on improving trade efficiency, supporting SMMEs and strengthening South Africa’s logistics competitiveness through data-driven collaboration.
A new industry association, the South African Freight and Logistics Association (SAFLA), has officially launched to represent the operational interests of freight forwarders and logistics operators across South Africa, aiming to reduce inefficiencies that impact trade, economic participation and supply chain performance.
Founded on principles of data-led decision-making and practical industry engagement, SAFLA positions itself as a solutions-focused platform designed to address persistent challenges affecting freight movement, border processes and customs compliance.
Addressing friction in supply chains
SAFLA’s founding Executive Officer, Dave Logan, emphasised that the organisation aims to resolve operational challenges often experienced by logistics operators on the ground.
The association will focus on practical issues including border delays, permit duplication and valuation disputes, using real operational data to inform engagement with regulators and industry stakeholders.
SAFLA intends to maintain representation at key logistics corridors and border points including Durban, Cape Town, Ngqura, Beitbridge and Lebombo, helping ensure that regional trade challenges are accurately reflected in national discussions.
Early engagement priorities include collaboration with South African Revenue Service, Transnet and the Border Management Authority, as well as multiple regulatory bodies involved in customs and cross-border trade.
By analysing shipment data, delay trends and cost impacts, the association aims to contribute to improved regulatory alignment and more efficient logistics systems.
Supporting inclusive economic participation
From a social impact and economic inclusion perspective, SAFLA has placed strong emphasis on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises operating in the freight and logistics sector.
Tiered membership structures have been introduced to ensure that micro enterprises and smaller logistics operators can participate in industry advocacy processes alongside larger corporate players.
Flexible participation options, including payment plans and project-based involvement, aim to lower barriers to entry and promote broader industry representation.
SMMEs play a significant role in South Africa’s logistics value chain, contributing to employment creation and supporting trade-linked economic activity.
SAFLA’s commitment to capacity-building initiatives includes workshops, training interventions and industry-aligned skills development opportunities that support business sustainability and competitiveness.
Building future industry skills
Recognising the importance of long-term sector resilience, SAFLA plans to introduce a Young Professionals Forum alongside mentorship programmes and partnerships with universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training institutions.
The association is working with global logistics body International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations and relevant Sector Education and Training Authorities, including Transport Education Training Authority, to develop recognised certifications in areas such as customs compliance, border clearance and multimodal logistics coordination.
Skills development initiatives are expected to support transformation within the sector while strengthening professional standards and industry competitiveness.
Strengthening trade through collaboration
SAFLA aims to demonstrate measurable improvements within its first year of operation, including regulatory engagement outcomes, strengthened regional representation and the publication of data-backed position papers to support policy development.
Efficient logistics systems play an important role in economic growth, trade facilitation and regional competitiveness.
From an ESG and shared value perspective, initiatives that improve supply chain efficiency can reduce operational costs, strengthen business sustainability and support more inclusive economic participation across industries reliant on trade.
By prioritising operational insights and collaborative engagement, SAFLA aims to contribute to a more responsive and inclusive freight and logistics ecosystem.
The association is now open for membership enquiries.
