TNPA Secures R1 Billion Investment Through Two Durban Port Concessions

The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has awarded two major concessions at the Maydon Wharf precinct in the Port of Durban, in a move aimed at strengthening South Africa’s agricultural export capacity and improving overall port efficiency.

The projects are expected to unlock more than R1 billion in private sector investment focused on upgrading infrastructure used to handle fresh produce and agricultural cargo.

African Port Logistics and Infrastructure (Pty) Ltd, trading as KHOLD, has been appointed as the preferred bidder for handling fresh produce and compatible break-bulk cargo. The company has committed R250 million towards the development.

The BAL SA and Africa Global Logistics Consortium has been named preferred bidder for a separate multi-purpose terminal that will handle agricultural dry bulk and related cargo, with a planned investment of R810 million.

Both concessions will run for a period of 25 years. The appointed operators will be responsible for financing, designing, constructing, operating and maintaining the facilities before transferring them back to TNPA at the end of the concession term.

According to TNPA, the upgrades are expected to improve cargo handling capacity and strengthen supply chains from farms to international markets. This is particularly important for time-sensitive exports such as fresh produce.

TNPA General Manager for Commercial Services, Dr Dineo Mazibuko, said the projects form part of efforts to modernise port operations and improve Durban’s competitiveness as an export hub.

“These concessions not only respond to market demands but also advance national priorities that enable the port to transform. By unlocking such significant investment, we are ensuring that Maydon Wharf evolves into a modern, efficient and inclusive logistics hub,” Mazibuko said.

The concessionaires have also committed to supporting transformation through the inclusion of black-owned and small enterprises, as well as creating opportunities for previously disadvantaged individuals.

The preferred bidders will now enter into negotiations with TNPA to finalise Terminal Operator Agreements, which will outline the next steps for implementation.