Port Land Lease - West Bank, East London

Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), an operating division of Transnet SOC Ltd, is inviting proposals for the lease of three land parcels (Land Asset Numbers EBX2457L, EBX2458L and EBX2466L) located on a portion of Erf 19711 and Erf 19719 in the West Bank precinct of the Port of East London. The combined extent is approximately 14,260 m², and the premises are offered for a lease period of up to twenty years. The property is currently vacant and is offered on an as-is (voetstoots) basis. The proposed use must be automotive or port-related commercial activity that aligns with the Port Development Framework Plan (2022) and supports the port's stated role as a key player in the automotive industry, alongside container, general cargo, green economy and ship repair activities.

The successful bidder will be responsible for refurbishment, repairs, upgrades and capital improvements necessary to make the premises fit for purpose, at its own cost and in compliance with applicable laws. The bidder must also assume all costs, risks and liabilities for the identification, management and lawful removal of vegetation on the site, and must indemnify TNPA accordingly. Beneficial occupation may be considered during development, subject to a motivated business plan and TNPA approval, with the bidder liable for property holding costs during that period. Bidders are strongly advised to inspect the property before submitting a response.

Proposals are evaluated in stages: administrative and substantive responsiveness, then a functionality threshold of 66.67 out of 100 points covering previous experience (company profile, two reference letters not older than five years), track record (a bank rating not older than three months), alignment with the PDFP, a market analysis, value to port operations, a capital expenditure work breakdown and project schedule, a maintenance plan, and a signed cashflow projection. Qualifying bids are then scored on rental offer price (80 or 90 points, depending on the applicable preference system) and specific goals such as B-BBEE status, black youth, black women and disabled ownership. Mandatory documents include the SBD 1 form, a company resolution, a valid tax compliance PIN, CSD registration, and a signed Integrity Pact and Non-Disclosure Agreement. Key dates are the non-compulsory briefing session on 30 October 2026 at 12:00, the clarification deadline on 20 November 2026, and the closing date of 27 November 2026 at 15:00. Bids must be submitted electronically via the Transnet e-Tender Submission Portal, and the bid validity period is 120 business days.