While there can be no question that there have been problems surrounding KwaZulu-Natal’s ports in recent years, steps are being taken to improve efficiency and competitiveness,” says Quintus van der Merwe, senior partner at Shepstone & Wylie.
According to Van der Merwe, who heads up the law firm's department for customs, international trade and transport, private sector investment is supporting efforts to improve the province's ports.
“Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) has signed two key agreements, paving the way for South Africa’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal and a new liquid bulk facility at the Port of Richards Bay’s South Dunes precinct,” he said.
Confirmed investments include a 25-year LNG terminal operator agreement with Zululand Energy Terminals, as well as a R123 million agreement with FFS Tank Terminals to develop and operate a liquid bulk terminal.
More recently, Transnet signed a R285 million agreement with Grindrod Eyamakhosi Joint Venture to develop a new Richards Bay container handling facility.
In May 2025, TNPA announced the selection of five preferred bidders for liquid bulk and green fuel terminals in the port.
“This is exciting news. It may help to alleviate Durban’s congestion and make the KwaZulu-Natal ports attractive compared to Maputo and the Namibian ports,” said Van der Merwe.
Jennifer Finnigan, a Shepstone & Wylie partner specialising in ports and rail work, adds that a request for proposals (RFPs) has been issued for agri bulk and fresh produce terminals in Durban’s Maydon Wharf.
- Read the full article in our Freight Features edition on "Durban & Richards Bay.
