DURBAN — South Africa’s state-owned Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has signed a 20-year terminal operator agreement with FPT Group to redevelop, operate, and maintain a specialized fresh produce terminal at the Port of Durban, seeking to draw private-sector capital into vital port infrastructure.
The partnership aims to resolve longstanding logistical bottlenecks, optimize supply chain efficiency, and guarantee reliable export channels for South African growers, freight forwarders, and shipping lines. The terminal’s throughput is projected to reach 1.691 million metric tons per year by 2028, with volumes expanding by about 2% annually before stabilizing at approximately 1.906 million tons by 2034. The added capacity is set to bolster the global competitiveness of South Africa’s citrus export industry.
“This partnership is a game changer for South Africa’s growing agricultural export sector,” said Mohammed Abdool, Chief Executive of TNPA. “By unlocking long-term private sector investment, we are reinforcing the Port of Durban’s strategic role in supporting economic growth and export development.”
In addition to operational upgrades, the concession incorporates extensive socio-economic and employment commitments. During the initial redevelopment phase, FPT has earmarked approximately R397 million for regional economic initiatives, small business support, and skills development. Over the full 20-year operational term, an estimated R3.3 billion will be directed toward supplier development, localization, and broader economic participation aligned with port transformation objectives.
“We are confident that this partnership will unlock sustained growth for South Africa’s citrus export sector and the broader economy,” said Paulo Franco, Managing Director at FPT Group. “FPT remains committed to continuous operational improvement to maximize value for growers, exporters, shipping lines, transporters, clearing and forwarding agents, and other industry stakeholders.”
