An updated version of the network statement that will govern access to the South Africa’s railways system for the two financial years of 2026/27 and 2027/28 has been Gazetted by the Department of Transport and published by the Transnet Rail Infrastructure Manager (TRIM).

Known as Network Statement Version 4, TRIM says the document has been released following a public-comment period launched in July, as well as engagements with train operating companies (TOCs), freight owners, customers, regulators, financiers, industry associations and government stakeholders.

Published in Gazette No. 55426, the new document is also said to be in line with South Africa’s National Rail Policy and the Economic Regulation of Transport Act, as well as reforms aimed at facilitating a competitive rail sector, hitherto monopolised by Transnet Freight Rail (TFR).

To date, 11 private TOCs have secured rail access agreements alongside TFR for slots released under a previous version of the network statement.

In a media release confirming the publication of Version 4, TRIM said the updated document built on earlier editions but introduced a range of enhancements designed to provide greater clarity, transparency and flexibility for existing and prospective rail users.

“Enhancements include clearer recognition of access seekers, expanded provisions for ad hoc applications, improved visibility of available capacity, strengthened governance principles and greater clarity regarding supporting and ancillary services required for rail operations.”

TRIM said the changes aimed to broaden opportunities for participation, provide greater operational flexibility and support increased use of the rail network.

They also provided “increased regulatory certainty and confidence for current and future rail market participants”.

In an interview with Engineering News ahead of the release of the document, TRIM CEO Moshe Motlohi confirmed that the contract period had been extended from 10 to 15 years; a change that would also be extended to the initial TOCs.

Motlohi also said the formal introduction of an ‘ad hoc methodology’ would allow for the release of rail slots for shorter periods when network capacity became available because of unforeseen circumstances.

These ad hoc allocations would be available to the existing 12 operators, as well as new entrants.

The new network statement outlines both the train paths that have been determined by TRIM, as well as the application process for TOCs seeking a capacity allocation. However, it also highlights constraints on the network, as well as security vulnerabilities.

The opening of the network is also seen as being constrained by access to rolling stock, such as locomotives and wagons.

Meanwhile, TRIM anticipated the first private TOCs could begin pilot operations before the end of 2026, with the others expected to enter the mainline network from 2027 onwards.

The introduction of private TOCs to South Africa’s mainline rail network forms part of reforms aimed at increasing rail volumes to 250-million tons by 2030.

In 2025/26, TFR increased its volumes by 4.9% to 167.9-million tons, short of its 180-million-ton target.