Beitbridge Border May Soon Have a New Toll Plaza: What Travellers Need to Know

South Africa’s busiest border crossing could soon come with an extra cost. The Department of Transport has gazetted plans for a new toll plaza at the Beitbridge Border Post, the critical gateway linking South Africa and Zimbabwe.

If approved, motorists travelling southbound into Limpopo may have to pay toll fees on the South African side of the N1, a move already sparking debate among commuters, truckers, and businesses who rely on the crossing.

Why This Border Matters

The Beitbridge Border Post is more than just a line between two countries. It is the lifeline that connects South Africa’s economic hubs to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, the DRC, and much of the Southern African Development Community. On any given day, thousands of travellers and more than 300 trucks use the route.

Before the multi-billion rand upgrade that began in 2018, freight operators would wait up to a week in queues. Those improvements have cut delays drastically, with the border now operating around the clock. The new systems have reduced congestion, improved security, and created smoother flows for trade and travel.

Why the Toll?

SANRAL, the national roads agency, recommended the plaza in line with its mandate to manage national roads. In 2018, SANRAL declared N1 Section 29X, about 1.1 kilometres inside the South African Beitbridge Border Post area, a national road, opening the door for tolling.

At present, Zimbabwean authorities collect toll fees on the northern side for traffic heading into South Africa. The new plaza would shift toll collection onto South African soil, allowing local authorities to capture revenue from the thousands of vehicles that enter daily.

According to SANRAL, the location of the toll point is still flexible. It could sit within the border post itself or at another site nearby, depending on payment methods and traffic design.

Public Reaction and Concerns

On social media, opinions have split quickly. Some argue that toll fees will add yet another layer of cost to already expensive cross-border trade. Others point out that South Africa should share in the revenue stream, especially given the billions spent upgrading the route.

Local businesses in Musina worry the toll could push up prices of goods, while long-haul truckers fear extra costs will ultimately be passed to consumers across the region. At the same time, policymakers argue that sustainable infrastructure requires funding, and tolls are one way to secure it.

Have Your Say

Public comments on the proposal are open until 19 September 2025. After that, the Department of Transport will review submissions before making a final call.

For now, motorists heading through Beitbridge should keep an eye on developments. If the plan goes ahead, the cost of crossing South Africa’s most vital trade route could soon change.

Also read: Standard Bank warns customers: AI scams are getting smarter in South Africa

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Source: Business Tech

Featured Image: The South African