March 20, 2026 [Storage Terminals Magazine]- Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has appointed FFS Tank Terminals as the preferred bidder to refurbish and operate a liquid bulk terminal for a 25-year concession period at the Port of Cape Town. The terminal, specialising in edible oils and compatible cargo, is a brownfield development covering approximately 6,289 m² within the Liquid Bulk Precinct, boasting a projected investment value of R102 million — including capital and maintenance costs.

FFS Tank Terminals will finance, construct, operate and maintain the liquid bulk terminal, transferring it back to TNPA at the end of the concession period. The scope of work includes upgrading storage tanks to enhance structural integrity and repurposing the existing import pipeline, currently used for vegetable and edible oils. The investment will further focus on repurposing the Nautilus facility, as well as upgrading gantry and receiving systems.

Once upgraded, the import pipeline will be equipped to handle additional new cargo types such as caustic soda lye and monoethylene glycol. These improvements are expected to enhance the throughput of vegetable oils and specialty chemicals through the port.

TNPA general manager of commercial services, Dr Dineo Mazibuko, described the development as part of the authority’s broader strategic direction. She stated that the modernisation of the liquid bulk terminal reflects TNPA’s shift towards diversification in response to evolving market demands, ensuring the security of supply of industrial and food service supplies while meeting new market demands for the importation of specialty chemicals. Dr Mazibuko further noted that the project represents a vital contribution to economic stability, while optimising infrastructure utilisation and the commercial viability of South Africa’s seaports.

The milestone follows the successful conclusion of the Section 56 process under the National Ports Act of 2005. FFS Tank Terminals (Pty) Ltd is a Level 1 B-BBEE contributor with over two decades of experience in liquid bulk terminal operations. The company operates multiple manufacturing sites, storage facilities and tank farms across the country, and remains committed to ongoing investment in local suppliers and skills development initiatives.