South Africa’s Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) on Thursday (7 May) invited interested parties to submit bids in response to the Request for Proposals (RFP) for the appointment of a terminal operator to finance, operate, maintain, refurbish, and/or construct a liquid bulk terminal, including bunkering and related services, at the Port of Cape Town for a 25-year concession period.
TNPA controls and manages all eight commercial ports on the 2954 km South African coastline.
The project site is an existing brownfield development comprising of a tank farm with eight storage tanks offering a combined storage capacity of approximately 44,430 m³, including an adjacent storage warehouse and admin building.
The site allows for the interface with common-user berths at Tanker Basin 1 and Tanker Basin 2, supporting both local supply from the refinery and the importation of bunkering products.
Through this RFP, the Port of Cape Town seeks to retain and enhance a strategically important liquid bulk terminal, ensuring the continuity of critical services. This also supports long-term financial sustainability and optimal infrastructure utilisation through private sector participation.
Ophelia Shabane, Acting Port Manager at the Port of Cape Town, said: “The Port of Cape Town is strategically positioned to support multiple liquid bulk operations, and this RFP allows for private sector participation to enhance liquid bulk cargo volumes whilst strengthening bunkering capabilities and revenue generation.
“By attracting a capable terminal operator, we aim to ensure that the site continues to operate efficiently while supporting regional fuel supply and broader economic growth.
“The RFP is underpinned by demonstrable market demand, which informs the appointment of a new terminal operator to deliver operational efficiency, ensure operational continuity and effectively use and modernise existing infrastructure.”
Note: RFP documents can be accessed from the National Treasury’s e-tender portal and/or the Transnet website:
Photo credit: Transnet National Ports Authority
Published: 11 May, 2026
