TRANSNET National Ports Authority (TNPA) has taken a decisive step to advance South Africa’s food security and improve global trade competitiveness through two landmark concession awards in the Maydon Wharf Precinct of the Port of Durban.
These transactions will unlock more than R1 billion in private-sector investment in modernising port infrastructure while strengthening Durban’s strategic position as a gateway for agricultural and perishable exports.
R1bn private investment unlocked
African Port Logistics and Infrastructure (Pty) Ltd, trading as KHOLD, has been appointed as the preferred bidder to handle fresh produce and compatible break-bulk cargo with a planned investment of R250 million.
With a committed R810 million in capital expenditure, the BAL SA & Africa Global Logistics Consortium has been named the preferred bidder for the development and management of a multi-purpose terminal to handle agricultural dry bulk and other compatible cargo.
Long-term infrastructure upgrade
These brownfield concessions will run over 25 years, granting the operators the license to finance, design, construct, operate, maintain and ultimately transfer the upgraded terminal facilities back to TNPA. The projects are expected to enhance handling capacity for fresh produce and agricultural dry bulk and strengthen supply chains from local farms to global markets.
Beyond infrastructure upgrades, the concessions are expected to deliver broader economic benefits across the SADC region. Both preferred bidders have committed to advancing transformation by including black-owned small and emerging enterprises and expanding opportunities for previously disadvantaged persons.
Strategic hub development
TNPA General Manager Commercial Services, Dr Dineo Mazibuko, said: “These concessions not only respond to market demands but also advance national priorities that enable the port to transform as prescribed by Transnet’s Reinvent for Growth Strategy.
“By unlocking such significant investment, we are ensuring that Maydon Wharf evolves into a modern, efficient, terminalized and automated inclusive logistics hub. These transactions further strengthen Durban’s position as a competitive export platform for agricultural and fresh produce trade.”
The preferred bidders will now enter negotiations with TNPA to finalise Terminal Operator Agreements (TOAs). This governance process will mark the next steps in implementing these strategically significant developments.
