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PROJECT FREIGHT NETWORK (PFN) has appointed Yamato Transport (Europe) – South Africa as its new member in South Africa, strengthening the network’s footprint across Southern Africa as demand for mining, industrial, and infrastructure logistics continues to grow on the continent.
The announcement, released on May 27, comes as logistics providers race to secure stronger regional coverage in Africa, where project cargo flows linked to mining, renewable energy, automotive manufacturing, and industrial expansion are driving increased demand for specialized transport and freight forwarding services.
Based in Cape Town, Yamato Transport (Europe) – South Africa established operations in the country in 2024 and has since expanded into Johannesburg, Durban, and Port Elizabeth, according to PFN. The move gives the network additional access to South Africa’s major cargo gateways and inland industrial corridors at a time when shippers are seeking more resilient supply chain options across Africa.
African Project Cargo Market Draws Global Attention
PFN said the addition of the South African operation would enhance its ability to support project logistics and heavy lift cargo movements throughout the region.
The company operates as part of the broader Yamato Group, a logistics organization founded in 1919 with activities spanning air, ocean, and land freight services. The South African division focuses on sectors including automotive, mining, retail, technology, and manufacturing.
Industry analysts have increasingly identified Southern Africa as a strategic growth area for project cargo operators due to continued investment in mining exports, energy infrastructure, and industrial development projects. Ports such as Durban and Port Elizabeth remain critical gateways for oversized cargo, although operators continue to face challenges tied to congestion, equipment shortages, and inland transport bottlenecks.
Network Expansion Reflects Competitive Pressure
Heading the South African business is Kevin Melnick, Regional Director Africa, who PFN said brings significant regional market experience to the operation.
PFN management said Yamato’s regional coverage and operational capabilities made it a strategic addition to the network.
“We are very pleased to welcome Yamato Transport (Europe) – South Africa to the PROJECT FREIGHT NETWORK family,” PFN management said in the statement. “Their strong regional presence, international capabilities, and commitment to customer service make them an excellent addition to our global network.”
The expansion also reflects increasing competition among specialized logistics networks seeking reliable African partners capable of handling complex project shipments, breakbulk cargo, and multimodal transport requirements.
South Africa Remains Key Logistics Hub
South Africa continues to play a central role in African trade flows due to its port infrastructure, industrial base, and access to mining regions across Southern Africa. Durban remains the continent’s largest container port, while Port Elizabeth and Cape Town handle a growing share of automotive and industrial cargo.
For project logistics operators, regional presence has become increasingly important as customers demand faster response times, local compliance expertise, and integrated transport solutions across multiple African markets.
PFN said the new membership would support long-term collaboration and expand the network’s professional project logistics capabilities worldwide.
