South Africa seeks operator for multipurpose terminal in Durban

South Africa’s Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) is looking for an operator for a multipurpose terminal in Durban.

The state-run ports and freight-rail operator has invited interested parties to submit proposals to design, develop, fund, build, operate, maintain, and transfer the terminal in the Maydon Wharf Precinct for a 25-year concession period.

The precinct, extending about 145 hectares, with 15 berths and a capacity of over 7m tonnes of cargo annually, primarily serves as a mixed-use area hosting a cargo terminal for dry bulk, breakbulk, a limited amount of liquid bulk, and a small number of containerised units.

The site consists of two leases with a total area of 25,125 sq m. One lease is a brownfield site that includes the main administration building, an office block, and a workshop.

“The issuance of this RFP signifies our ongoing and intentional efforts to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of the Port of Durban. By attracting capable terminal operators, we aim to modernise infrastructure, optimise cargo handling, and strengthen the port’s role as a key trade gateway for the region,” said Nkumbuzi Ben-Mazwi, acting port manager for the port of Durban.

Meanwhile, decision on who gets to operate South Africa’s largest container port remains on hold. In 2023, Philippines-based International Container Terminal Services Inc (ICTSI) won the bid to operate the flagship Durban Container Terminal Pier 2 for 25 years, but that decision was challenged by losing bidder Maersk, which argued that the tender award was irregular. The matter is yet to be resolved in court.