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Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has taken another significant step towards private participation in its infrastructure, calling investors to develop Cape Town's liquid bulk terminal in a 25-year concession.

This is the second major contract TNPA has put out to the market, with the first being a 25-year contract to manage the Durban Container Terminal (DCT) Pier 2. Transnet has appointed the Philippines' International Container Terminal Services Inc (ICTSI) as the preferred bidder for the Durban project.

TNPA said on Wednesday that the request for proposals will require the successful bidder to "acquire, operate, maintain, refurbish, or construct and transfer a liquid bulk terminal for a 25-year concession period." Liquid bulk commodities include gas, oil, and chemicals.

The proposed facility is a brownfield site within the port's liquid bulk precinct, with the berths classified as common user berths for liquid bulk commodities.

"The RFP is aligned to TNPA's mandate to facilitate the provision of port services and facilities with an emphasis on revenue diversification, job creation, infrastructure development, and collaboration with the private sector to foster sustainable economic growth.

"The liquid bulk precinct at the port of Cape Town enables the efficient movement of liquefied cargo across South Africa and beyond, facilitating international trade and ensuring the security of supply," said Ophelia Shabane, Acting Port Manager.

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