A new partnership involving Arctic Gateway Group, CentrePort Canada, and global port operator DP World aims to expand trade opportunities, including increased shipments through the Port of Churchill.
The three organizations announced Monday they have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore opportunities involving port operations, logistics services, and the development of an integrated transportation corridor linking Churchill, the Hudson Bay Railway, CentrePort Canada, and DP World’s global logistics network.
The agreement is intended to strengthen supply chains, diversify Canadian export routes and improve access to international markets, potentially connecting Europe and Asia through Canada.
The Port of Churchill, Canada’s only Arctic seaport served by rail, has historically handled grain exports, particularly wheat, along with fuel and general merchandise destined for northern communities. More recently, its cargo mix has expanded to include critical minerals, potash and supplies for Nunavut.
“This year has brought the most diverse mix of commodities ever shipped through the Port of Churchill, and there is growing international attention on what we are building in Manitoba's North,” Arctic Gateway president and CEO Chris Avery said in a release.
CentrePort Canada, located near Winnipeg, is a 20,000-acre inland port and foreign trade zone connecting truck, rail and air cargo transportation. It is home to more than 1,000 companies and has attracted approximately $1.5 billion in private investment in recent years. DP World operates an international network of ports, terminals and logistics facilities, handling more than 1 million shipping containers annually in Canada.
Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said the partnership could create jobs, attract investment and help Canadian exporters reach new markets.
The agreement remains exploratory, with the partners seeking opportunities to better connect existing transportation infrastructure and encourage future investment.
Arctic Gateway Group, an Indigenous- and community-owned Manitoba company, operates both the Port of Churchill and the Hudson Bay Railway connecting Churchill to The Pas.
