Port Elizabeth (South Africa)

Port Elizabeth is one of the biggest port cities in South Africa, located in Eastern Cape province, approx 770 km (478 ml) east of country's capital Cape Town. The city stretches for 16 km (10 ml) along Algoa Bay, and is one of the most important seaports in South Africa. It is also Africa's southernmost large city, with population around 320,000 (metro over 1,5 million).

Port Elizabeth was established in 1820 by British settlers. Today it is part of Nelson Mandela Bay (metro region). The majority of South Africa's trade historically came through Port Elizabeth. During the 1830s, at least 5 ships regularly transported goods to Europe. The city is home of South Africa's motor vehicle industry having several large assembly plants serving Ford, General Motors, Continental Tyres and other auto companies. Other major industries in the city also serve the vehicle manufacturing industry, providing parts (wiring harnesses, batteries, catalytic converters, tyres).

Port Elizabeth is a major seaport serving large bulk carriers. The port has the largest ore loading terminals in the southern hemisphere. A new Industrial Development Zone was built at Coega, with expanded port facilities. The port has one harbour (Algoa Bay) and additional international harbour at Coega.

Port Port Elizabeth's cargo and cruise shipping operations are managed by TNPA (Transnet National Ports Authority). This is Africa's largest port authority company that manages 7 large seaports in South Africa - Port Elizabeth, Durban, Cape Town, Richards Bay, East London, Mossel Bay, and Saldanha.

Port Elizabeth Car Terminal serves 40+ car manufacturers exporting South Africa-made vehicles to 155+ countries. The country's automotive production industry accounts for ~14% of its total exports, ~7% of its GDP and employs 110,000+ people.