Transnet says its port division was not planning to build a new coal terminal, denying claims by industry sources who say the facility would be built and operational by June this year. 

South African industry sources said earlier today that a thermal coal export terminal would be built at South Dunes near Richards Bay and would start shipments as early as June. There is already a coal export facility in Richards Bay. 

The sources said two junior coal mining companies had been pushing for a new terminal to be built by the National Ports Authority, a division of Transnet, to enable more small Black Economic Empowerment miners to export their own coal. 

But Transnet said the National Ports Authority was not in talks to build a terminal, and said a June start date was unlikely even if such plans were on the cards. Transnet spokesperson John Dludlu confirmed that Transnet is not in talks with anyone regarding building a coal terminal in Richards Bay.

Rail capacity has been a major factor limiting South Africa's coal exports - a source of frustration both to South African coal sellers and Indian coal buyers. -Reuters