Logistics & Transportation Events in South Africa

SAPICS Annual Conference

The SAPICS Conference & Exhibition serves as a cornerstone event for supply chain professionals across Southern Africa, offering an invaluable platform for exchanging knowledge, discussing challenges, and sharing practical experiences. With a strong emphasis on networking, innovation, and learning, this conference has become a key fixture for those involved in the supply chain sector, providing them with the tools and insights needed to navigate an ever-evolving industry landscape.

This year's event embraces the theme of "Supply Chain Metamorphosis," delving deep into the profound transformations currently shaping the supply chain world. The conference aims to explore how traditional supply chain models are adapting to new challenges, technologies, and market demands, offering a comprehensive understanding of the ongoing revolution in the field. With businesses increasingly focusing on automation, digitalization, and sustainability, the event promises to shed light on how these changes are affecting supply chain management at every level.

The SAPICS Conference & Exhibition attracts a diverse range of experts, from supply chain managers to innovators and thought leaders, who come together to present the latest trends, technologies, and best practices. It’s a rare opportunity for participants to stay ahead of industry developments, enhance their strategic thinking, and discover new solutions that could improve operational efficiency and resilience in their own organizations. Attendees can expect a series of thought-provoking presentations, hands-on workshops, and networking sessions that enable them to connect with like-minded professionals and build partnerships that drive future success.

The event's discussions will be grounded in real-world scenarios, offering participants actionable takeaways that can be applied immediately within their organizations. By focusing on both the challenges and the opportunities presented by the transformation of the supply chain industry, the SAPICS conference fosters a collaborative environment where attendees can learn from one another's experiences and gain new perspectives on how to approach ongoing changes.

As supply chain professionals face increasing pressures to streamline operations, adopt sustainable practices, and integrate cutting-edge technologies, the SAPICS Conference & Exhibition provides a critical opportunity to gain knowledge, share ideas, and stay at the forefront of industry advancements. Whether it’s exploring how digital tools are revolutionizing logistics or understanding how supply chains are becoming more agile and responsive to changing global demands, this event promises to be a key resource for anyone involved in the management and optimization of supply chains in Southern Africa and beyond.

SAPICS represents a gathering of minds dedicated to shaping the future of supply chain management. By providing an open space for dialogue, learning, and innovation, the conference supports the growth of a more adaptive, efficient, and sustainable supply chain ecosystem. For professionals looking to navigate the complex world of modern supply chains and ensure their organizations remain competitive, SAPICS is an unmissable event that offers the insights and connections necessary to thrive in today’s dynamic business environment.

Transport Evolution Africa Forum & Expo

The annual Transport Evolution Africa Forum & Expo is the premier event for the port, rail, and road sectors in Africa, taking place in Johannesburg, South Africa. This exceptional event serves as the only platform where local, regional, and international public and private stakeholders unite to plan, build, invest in, and supply the development and maintenance of Africa’s transport infrastructure. 

As the African transport industry undergoes a significant transformation, the forum and expo provide an invaluable opportunity to witness firsthand the latest innovations, share knowledge, and gain insights into the projects shaping the continent’s future. From advancements in digitisation to the growing need for climate-resilient infrastructure, the event serves as a critical space where the future of transportation in Africa is crafted.

With over 200 exhibitors and thousands of visitors, including more than 400 VIPs and conference delegates, the event connects the entire transport and logistics value chain. It offers an ideal opportunity for companies and stakeholders to showcase their solutions, foster business transactions, drive investment, and contribute to the growth and development of Africa's transport sector. The forum brings together representatives from both public and private sectors, discussing and collaborating on the continent's transportation and logistics infrastructure needs.

The Transport Evolution Africa Forum & Expo is a significant gathering that attracts over 500 delegates from 15 countries. The two-day event is an excellent occasion for anyone looking to stay updated on the latest trends, technological advancements, and infrastructure projects in the African transport sector. It is a vital meeting point for those involved in shaping the future of transportation across the continent, offering insights that will influence the evolution of this ever-growing industry.

Ports & Customs Week

Ports & Customs Week: Uniting Africa’s Trade and Customs Ecosystem through Innovation

In a rapidly evolving global trade landscape, Ports & Customs Week emerges as a vital event dedicated to tackling the complexities of cross-border trade, port modernization, and customs digitalization across Africa. This premier regional platform focuses on the technological, operational, and financial challenges impacting trade and logistics, while also encouraging dialogue and innovation among key stakeholders.

Set against the backdrop of Africa’s expanding trade networks, the event brings together an influential mix of policymakers, private sector players, and global experts to foster collaboration and introduce transformative solutions that strengthen the region’s ports and customs systems.

Connecting Stakeholders Across the African Trade Ecosystem

One of the standout features of Ports & Customs Week is its capacity to bring together an impressive range of participants from across the trade, logistics, and infrastructure spectrum. This inclusive gathering promotes cooperation between both public and private sectors and facilitates knowledge sharing to improve operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.
Participating sectors and organizations include:

Ports and Customs Authorities

Transport and Infrastructure Ministries

Trade and Investment Departments

Revenue and Finance Ministries

Freight Forwarders and Shipping Lines

Logistics Providers and Maritime Agents

Banks, Importers, Exporters, and Technology Providers

The event fosters direct engagement through roundtables, keynote sessions, live demonstrations, and breakout workshops—ensuring participants walk away with practical insights and new opportunities for collaboration.

Promoting Innovation Through Digitalization and Modernization

With the increasing complexity of global supply chains, Africa's ports and customs systems are under pressure to evolve. Digital transformation is at the heart of this change, and Ports & Customs Week is positioned as the leading stage for showcasing how digital tools can revolutionize customs clearance, border management, cargo tracking, and port infrastructure.

The show focuses on areas such as:

Integrated Customs Management Systems (ICMS)

Smart port infrastructure and automation

Blockchain for trade documentation and traceability

AI and predictive analytics for customs and border operations

Cloud-based logistics and cargo tracking platforms

This wave of digitalization offers enormous potential to reduce clearance times, cut down on manual errors, improve compliance, and enhance overall transparency in trade operations.

Key Themes and Discussion Tracks

The event's agenda is carefully curated to address pressing issues while offering forward-looking perspectives on African trade. From streamlining port procedures to building public-private partnerships, the sessions aim to cover a wide spectrum of real-world challenges and policy implications.
Topics covered include:

Climate-resilient port infrastructure

Financing mechanisms for port and customs modernization

Digital identity and e-documents for trade security

Cross-border data sharing and coordination

Risk management and cargo inspection technologies

Between sessions, attendees can network with global experts, explore exhibitor innovations, and participate in live demonstrations to see how theoretical solutions work in practice.

Special Feature: Border Security Week Co-location

An exciting addition to this year’s event is the co-location of Border Security Week, which further expands the scope of dialogue. This collaboration emphasizes the intersection between trade facilitation and national security, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore the synergies between customs operations and border control.

Topics under this segment include:

Integrated border security technologies

Biometrics and access control

Threat detection systems

Cross-border crime prevention frameworks

This segment highlights not just technical solutions but also policy models and operational best practices that can be replicated or adapted by various African countries to improve their own systems.

Enhancing Regional and International Collaboration

Ports & Customs Week also serves as a diplomatic and commercial bridge, facilitating cooperation between African nations and international stakeholders. The event promotes mutual understanding, shared standards, and collective strategies that help harmonize port and customs regulations across the continent.

This goal is supported through:

Bilateral and multilateral talks

Regional panel discussions

Stakeholder feedback sessions

Cross-sector working groups

By promoting harmonized digital systems and common customs frameworks, the event helps pave the way for faster trade corridors and more predictable international transactions.

Why Ports & Customs Week Matters

In an age defined by supply chain disruptions, geopolitical uncertainty, and rising consumer expectations, Africa’s ports and customs systems are being challenged to adapt—and quickly. Ports & Customs Week offers a timely and targeted solution: a space where visionaries and practitioners come together to drive practical, impactful change.

Here are just a few reasons why the event holds immense value:

Facilitates multi-sectoral collaboration on complex trade challenges

Highlights scalable innovations already in use across Africa and globally

Strengthens the continent’s position in global trade dialogues

Enables partnerships that drive investment and modernization

Empowers local stakeholders with actionable knowledge and new tools

A Forward-Thinking Platform for African Trade Evolution

As the region continues its journey toward integrated, digitalized trade ecosystems, Ports & Customs Week is poised to be a transformative event. It not only reflects Africa’s growing role in global trade but also emphasizes the need for smarter, faster, and more transparent port and customs operations.

From cutting-edge technologies to high-level policy dialogues, the event covers every facet of the modern trade environment. Whether you are a decision-maker, logistics provider, financier, or infrastructure developer, this is the forum to shape the future of African ports and customs together.

Africa Rail

Africa Rail is the continent's most significant and well-established event for the rail, freight, and transport sectors, offering a unique opportunity for industry professionals to explore the latest technological advancements, transportation trends, and sustainable practices in the rail industry. As the largest rail event in Africa, it has become a central meeting point for all stakeholders involved in the future of railway infrastructure across the continent. The event serves as a vital platform for individuals and organizations looking to engage with key players in the rail industry, gain insights, and form meaningful connections that will help shape the future of transportation in Africa.

With over 150 industry-leading speakers, including African Rail ministers, the event provides invaluable opportunities to hear from experts who are driving change and innovation in the railway sector. These keynote speeches and panel discussions delve into the pressing issues facing the industry, from technological advancements to infrastructure development and sustainability initiatives. Attendees will leave with actionable tactics, fresh ideas, and a deeper understanding of the evolving trends in rail transportation that they can apply to their businesses and projects.

Africa Rail is more than just an exhibition; it is a catalyst for growth and innovation across the African railway sector. The event provides an environment where rail operators, manufacturers, service providers, and government representatives can collaborate, exchange ideas, and share strategies that will propel the sector forward. As major investments continue to flow into the continent’s rail infrastructure, Africa Rail becomes an essential platform for stakeholders to discuss long-term strategies, investment opportunities, and the future of transportation systems that will drive economic growth and sustainability.

For those invested in the future of rail, freight, and transport in Africa, Africa Rail offers unparalleled access to the ideas, technologies, and partnerships that will influence the region's transport landscape. It is a gathering of visionaries and innovators committed to advancing rail infrastructure, improving connectivity, and ensuring that the African railway system remains a key driver of economic and social development.

Converge Africa

Converge Africa is a groundbreaking event designed to foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among a broad spectrum of industry professionals. This influential conference and exhibition brings together experts from e-commerce, fintech, payments, digital security, logistics, digital marketing, and other related sectors, offering a dynamic platform for individuals and companies to engage in meaningful discussions and explore new business opportunities. 

At its core, Converge Africa is about creating connections—whether it's through sharing the latest industry insights, discussing emerging trends, or addressing the challenges facing these rapidly evolving industries. It offers a unique opportunity for professionals to exchange knowledge and experiences, learning from each other’s successes and innovations. The event serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve in their respective fields, providing an up-to-date understanding of the current landscape and what the future may hold.

One of the primary goals of Converge Africa is to encourage strategic partnerships that can lead to long-term collaboration. With its diverse attendee base, the event offers companies an excellent opportunity to meet potential partners, suppliers, and clients from different industries, creating the foundation for mutually beneficial relationships. Whether you are seeking to expand your market presence, launch new products, or explore collaborative ventures, Converge Africa presents the perfect environment to unlock these opportunities.

The exhibition aspect of Converge Africa further amplifies its value, allowing attendees to experience firsthand the latest technologies, solutions, and innovations from leading companies in the space. From fintech tools to advanced logistics technologies and digital marketing strategies, the exhibition offers a comprehensive look at the solutions that are driving growth and transformation in key industries.

As businesses across these sectors strive to adapt to fast-changing technologies, regulatory shifts, and market demands, Converge Africa offers the critical insights and connections needed to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and competitive global marketplace. Whether you are an entrepreneur, an established business leader, or a newcomer looking to break into one of these dynamic fields, Converge Africa is an event you won’t want to miss. It’s where ideas converge, and where tomorrow’s business opportunities are born.

2nd Annual Supply Chain Optimisation

The 2nd Annual Supply Chain Optimisation event is a must-attend gathering for professionals and decision-makers from both the private and public sectors who are eager to tackle Africa’s most pressing supply chain challenges. With infrastructure gaps, limited technology adoption, regulatory inconsistencies, and governance barriers continuing to hinder supply chain efficiency, this event offers a vital platform to explore actionable solutions. For governments, the struggle to address budget constraints, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and corruption creates an urgent need for innovative strategies and collaboration. 

This event will deliver unparalleled insights into overcoming these challenges through sessions led by industry leaders and policy experts. Attendees will gain practical knowledge on leveraging technology, transforming procurement practices, fostering public-private partnerships, and building resilient supply chains that can drive economic growth and service delivery.

For private entities, the event offers an opportunity to understand evolving regulations, explore sustainability initiatives, and enhance collaboration with public sector stakeholders. For governments, it provides a forum to address governance issues, streamline procurement processes, and attract investment for infrastructure development.

With an agenda that addresses critical topics, from regulatory updates and professionalisation to ESG integration and cutting-edge technologies, this event is your gateway to becoming part of Africa's supply chain transformation. Don’t miss the chance to connect, learn, and lead the change towards more efficient and sustainable supply chains.

FUTUROAD EXPO JOHANNESBURG

The Futuroad Expo Johannesburg stands out as a premier trade fair dedicated to the vibrant sectors of truck, bus, and commercial vehicle body industries. Biennially held at the JHB Johannesburg Expo Centre, this event serves as both a vital business platform and a dynamic forum for innovation and knowledge exchange. Often simply referred to as "Futuroad," the expo focuses on a broad spectrum of vehicles, including heavy, medium, and light commercial vehicles, as well as specialized transportation solutions, emphasizing its forward-looking vision for advanced mobility and sustainable transport technologies.

Organized by Messe Frankfurt South Africa, the expo boasts international relevance and high-quality standards, attracting exhibitors and visitors from around the globe. The diverse array of products and services showcased includes everything from truck bodies and cooling systems to luxury coaches and specialized vehicles such as ambulances and fire trucks. This comprehensive selection highlights the latest advancements in the industry and reinforces the event’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of transport technology.

For Johannesburg and South Africa, the Futuroad Expo is of significant importance, acting as a central hub for African and international trade. It strengthens the local economy by facilitating cross-border services and promoting infrastructure development. The expo not only provides a platform for manufacturers and service providers but also fosters collaboration among key stakeholders in the transportation sector.

Attendees benefit from a rich program of panel discussions, training sessions, and masterclasses led by industry experts. These educational opportunities enable participants to deepen their knowledge and engage directly with leading professionals, making the expo an invaluable resource for those looking to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving field. The presence of decision-makers in logistics and transportation, along with representatives from industry associations, further enhances the networking potential and collaborative spirit of the event.

With its strategic location at the JHB Johannesburg Expo Centre, the Futuroad Expo offers modern infrastructure that supports the comprehensive needs of a specialized trade fair. The venue’s accessibility and facilities provide an ideal setting for showcasing the latest trends and developments in the transport industry. As part of a global series of fairs, the Futuroad Expo Johannesburg is poised to continue shaping the future of transportation, bringing together innovation, expertise, and collaboration in an increasingly interconnected world.