Stretching for nearly 3,000 kilometers, South Africa‘s coastline encompasses both the Atlantic and Indian oceans.

Dotted along the shore are eight commercial ports which play a vital role in the country’s economy. They are responsible for shifting 96% of South Africa’s exports, and receive trade from both the western and eastern hemisphere.

The largest among them is Durban, Africa’s second busiest harbor after Egypt‘s Port Said. The Port of Durban’s strategic position on the world shipping routes means it’s South Africa’s premier port, handling roughly 60% of the country’s cargo.