Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking a terminal operator to fund, design, develop, construct, operate, maintain, and transfer a new liquid bulk terminal at the Port of Ngqura. The concession period is set for twenty-five years.
The announcement, made on 27 June 2025, forms part of TNPA’s plan to relocate existing liquid bulk operations from the Port of Port Elizabeth to Ngqura, consistent with approved port development frameworks.
Purpose of the relocation
The planned relocation is intended to consolidate and modernise liquid bulk handling capacity in the region. According to TNPA, the move aligns with its broader development strategy aimed at reconfiguring port operations and infrastructure.
The new terminal is planned to include:
- Liquid bulk storage tanks
- Road tanker loading gantries
- Pipelines
- Other supporting operational infrastructure
The site earmarked for the development is within the Liquid Bulk Precinct at the port’s eastern back-of-port area adjacent to the N2 corridor. This precinct is also intended for potential future energy-related projects, such as facilities for Liquified Natural Gas (LNG).
Environmental considerations
TNPA notes that the Port of Ngqura holds an environmental authorisation for port operations, making it a key consideration in planning new terminal activities. The selected operator will be required to comply with environmental, safety, and regulatory standards during the design, construction, and operational phases.
While TNPA has highlighted the environmental authorisation as a feature of Ngqura’s development readiness, the actual operational approach will depend on the successful bidder’s compliance plans and ongoing monitoring by authorities.
Call for industry participation
The RFP process is open to existing industry players, new entrants, and Joint Ventures (JVs) with experience in port terminal operations. TNPA has invited interested parties to access the RFP and submit bids via the Transnet Tender Portal.
By opening the tender to a broad range of potential operators, TNPA indicates an intention to attract both established and emerging market participants capable of delivering the required infrastructure over the long concession period.
“The development of the liquid bulk terminal demonstrates TNPA’s commitment to relocate the liquid bulk operations to the Port of Ngqura. This terminal is intended to foster regional and national economic growth while ensuring environmental sustainability.” said the acting General Manager for Commercial Services at TNPA, Dr Dineo Mazibuko.
Context in South African port operations
The move to relocate liquid bulk facilities from Port Elizabeth to Ngqura has been under discussion in port development planning circles for several years. Ngqura, as South Africa’s newest commercial port, was developed with expansion capacity in mind, including dedicated precincts for liquid bulk and other specialised cargoes.
This RFP represents a concrete step in implementing those plans. It also reflects ongoing changes in how South Africa’s ports are adapting to shifting trade patterns, safety requirements, and environmental regulations.
Industry stakeholders interested in the RFP can access it via the Transnet Tender Portal. For media inquiries for TNPA click here.
About Transnet National Ports Authority
TNPA manages South Africa’s eight commercial seaports under the National Ports Act (Act No. 12 of 2005), operating in a landlord capacity that involves providing port infrastructure and marine services while leasing terminals to private operators.
Ports under TNPA’s oversight include:
- Richards Bay
- Durban
- Saldanha
- Cape Town
- Port Elizabeth
- East London
- Mossel Bay
- Ngqura
