The Port of Churchill in Churchill, Manitoba is shown on Wednesday, July 4, 2018. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods)
The governments of Manitoba and Saskatchewan have signed a new agreement with Arctic Gateway Group (AGG) to enhance the Port of Churchill as a key Arctic trade corridor.
Announced during the Council of the Federation’s summer meeting in Huntsville, Ontario, the memorandum of understanding outlines a five-year plan to invest in infrastructure, extend the northern shipping season, and activate trade networks for agricultural, mining, and energy products.
“Churchill presents huge opportunities when it comes to mining, agriculture and energy,” said Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, in a release. “Through this agreement with AGG and Saskatchewan, we are going to unlock new opportunities for businesses in Manitoba and Saskatchewan to get goods to market.”
AGG will invest in port and rail assets, while Saskatchewan will mobilize exporters and Manitoba will pursue federal funding and regulatory support.
AGG CEO Chris Avery called the agreement a major step toward making Churchill a vital link in Canada’s Arctic trade strategy, benefiting both Prairie producers and Indigenous ownership communities.
