Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has concluded appointed Bidfreight Port Operations as an operator a Multi-Purpose Terminal at Sheds 10 and 11 in the Port of Port Elizabeth, following an open tender process.

The agreement will see Bidfreight Port Operations design, develop, finance, construct, operate, maintain and transfer the Multi-Purpose Terminal at Sheds 10 and 11.  

While the official ceremony took place today, the agreement was concluded towards the end of 2018. The refurbishment of Sheds 10 and 11 started in November 2018 and the facility is expected to be fully operational by September 2019.

“We are extremely excited that the agreement with BPO has been concluded and that we can welcome a world-class independent operator to the Port of Port Elizabeth,” said Nozipho Mdawe, Chief Operating Officer of TNPA. She added that the development would optimise the use of Sheds 10 and 11, and give the port an edge in the competition for import and export cargo for Southern Africa.”   

With the overall multi-purpose cargo demand projections for South Africa, and the much required undercover storage infrastructure close to the quayside to support this, the facility will play a vital role in growing the volume of multi-purpose cargo passing through the Port of Port Elizabeth, boosting the economy of the region.

Socio-economic benefits of the development include:

• Creating local jobs during the refurbishment phase expected to take nine months;
• Promoting rural development due to skills development in the construction industry;
• Creating permanent jobs in the logistical supply chain once the terminal is operational;
• Empowering local BBBEE businesses;
• Increasing revenue for local businesses and
• Providing additional tax revenue.