South Africa’s State-owned Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has issued a request for proposals (RfP) for the appointment of a liquid bulk terminal operator for the handling of edible oils and compatible cargo at the Port of Cape Town.

The terminal site is a brownfield development covering about 6 289 m², within the Liquid Bulk Precinct at the Port of Cape Town. The terminal facilitates the delivery and dispatch of products through vessels and road tankers with access to common-user berths in the Tanker Basin.

The primary cargo handled at the terminal includes high-flash products, such as molasses and vegetable oils.

The RfP intends to select a terminal operator that will finance, refurbish and/or build, operate, maintain and transfer a liquid bulk terminal to handle edible oils and other compatible cargo for a 25-year concession period.

TNPA says the terminal will play a vital role in facilitating the import of liquid bulk, a key commodity for South Africa’s basic food essentials. This ensures security of supply to local industries, contributing to food security and economic stability.

“Appointing capable terminal operators is crucial for enhancing port efficiency, stimulating economic growth, job creation and driving modernisation. This concession will improve cargo throughput, optimise port utilisation and revenue generation.

“Additionally, it will attract privatefsector investment for terminal infrastructure development, ensuring world-class operational standards.

“The partnership will ensure compliance with global safety and environmental regulations, reinforcing TNPA’s role as a strategic enabler of trade and logistics,” says TNPA acting port manager for the Port of Cape Town Ophelia Shabane.

The Port of Cape Town has 11 licensed terminal operators, of which nine are privately operated. A non-compulsory RfP briefing session will be held with all interested parties at the Port of Cape Town on April 17.

The bid closes on July 11.

RfP documents can be accessed on the Transnet e-tender portal, click here and National Treasury eTenders, click here.