Transnet National Ports Authority Issues RFP for Construction and Operation of Cold Storage Terminal at Cape Town Port
The Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has officially issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the development and management of a break-bulk terminal at the Port of Cape Town.
The new facility will focus on cold storage for fish and related seafood products, forming a critical component of Cape Town’s fishing and export logistics chain.
Strategic Site to Enhance Fishing Industry Efficiency
The 7,273-square-metre brownfield site earmarked for development is strategically located adjacent to the ship repair and liquid bulk precincts within the port.
The site’s proximity to key marine operations will allow for the direct transfer of frozen fish from vessels into cold storage, improving efficiency, product integrity, and export readiness.
“The RFP process aims to identify a terminal operator who will finance, refurbish, construct, operate, maintain, and ultimately transfer the Break-Bulk Terminal under a 10-year concession,” TNPA said in a statement released on Wednesday.
Project Aligned with Long-Term Port Development Vision
TNPA confirmed that the new terminal aligns with its Port Development Framework Plans (PDFPs), which guide long-term investment and modernization strategies for South Africa’s ports.
The PDFPs, developed under the National Ports Act of 2005, outline a phased approach to relocating break-bulk operations to the Multi-Purpose Precinct between 2032 and 2052, ensuring infrastructure remains sustainable and globally competitive.
Private-Sector Participation to Drive Growth
Rajesh Dana, Port Manager at Cape Town, said the RFP reflects growing market demand for modern and efficient seafood cold storage and logistics facilities in the Western Cape.
“By leveraging private-sector participation and investment, this project aligns closely with Transnet’s Reinvent for Growth strategy, which focuses on optimizing port operations, transforming infrastructure, and enabling sustainable economic growth,” Dana explained.
Enhancing Port Competitiveness and Trade Efficiency
The planned cold storage terminal is expected to boost Cape Town’s position as a leading hub for seafood exports, strengthen the cold-chain supply network, and enhance overall trade efficiency.
By attracting private investment and ensuring infrastructure modernisation, the project supports Transnet’s broader goal of enhancing South Africa’s port competitiveness in the global maritime economy.
