Will coal fuel growth in South Africa?

Last year was easier for Coal Procurement South Africa. Despite an ailing rail transport system, the Johannesburg-based coal trader enjoyed a six-month period when it managed to get all its planned rail shipments to Durban port.

All too frequently, however, delays or short-notice cancellations force director Georges Mayer to use road transport, which is 10 to 15 per cent more expensive.

Rail is vital for a company that exports 600,000 tonnes of coal a year to industrial and domestic customers in Europe and elsewhere.

Gulf News