SASKATOON — An agreement has been signed to strengthen trade through the Port of Churchill.
Saskatchewan premier Scott Moe, Manitoba premier Wab Kinew and Arctic Gateway Group (AGG) have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a northern trade corridor.
“Streamlining access to ports, such as Churchill, will allow our goods better access to new and emerging international markets,” Moe said in a press release.
“Today’s MOU between Saskatchewan and Manitoba is another way we are building on that progress and creating new opportunities for our industries.”
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The provinces said the agreement will enhance infrastructure, streamline supply chains and boost access to global markets via Canada’s only deepwater Arctic port.
“Churchill presents huge opportunities when it comes to mining, agriculture and energy,” Kinew said in a press release.
“Through this agreement with AGG and Saskatchewan, we are going to unlock new opportunities for businesses in Manitoba and Saskatchewan to get their goods to market.”
The agreement outlines a five-year roadmap with annual progress reviews.
AGG will invest in port and rail assets and lengthen the shipping season to support increased freight capacity.
Saskatchewan has agreed to mobilize commodity producers and exporters through its trade offices and regional industry partners.
Manitoba will lead efforts to secure federal infrastructure funding and regulatory support to improve connectivity to northern markets.
“The governments of Manitoba and Saskatchewan understand the strategic value of the Port of Churchill and Hudson Bay Railway, especially as Canada looks to diversify trade and become an energy superpower,” said Chris Avery, AGG’s chief executive officer.
“This joint commitment from premiers Kinew and Moe is a clear signal that Canada’s Arctic Trade Corridor will play a major role in this country’s trade and transportation future.”
Avery said the benefits of increased traffic through the port will be returned to AGG’s Indigenous and northern ownership communities.
