Manitoba to upgrade Port of Churchill with $36M project

Key Takeaways:

• The Manitoba government is investing $36.4 million over two years to support infrastructure upgrades at the Port of Churchill, including wharf repairs and warehouse upgrades, to boost trade and economic growth.
• The Arctic Gateway Group, owned by 41 Indigenous and Bayline communities, is leading the development, supporting local jobs, economic reconciliation, and increased shipping of critical minerals.
• Churchill is being developed as a key Arctic trade hub, with plans to increase mineral exports, enhance Manitoba’s role in global supply chains, and position the province as a gateway for international trade.

The Whole Story:

The Manitoba government is investing $36.4 million over two years to the Arctic Gateway Group (AGG) for capital infrastructure projects at the Port of Churchill.

“Churchill presents huge opportunities when it comes to mining, agriculture and energy,” said Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew. “Our government’s investments are fueling northern Manitoba’s economy, increasing international trade and unlocking new economic opportunities for all Manitobans. These new investments will build up Manitoba’s economic strength and open our province to new trading opportunities.” 

The $36.4-million investment will support the AGG’s port and rail development vision and plan to expand traffic diversification and growth opportunities and attract private investment partners from the agriculture, mining, fertilizer and resupply sectors. Planned works include wharf repairs and freight warehouse upgrades, noted the premier.  

“This is about keeping northern communities connected, strengthening Indigenous economic leadership and positioning Manitoba as a key player in the global critical minerals market,” said Sport Minister Terry Duguid, minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada. “Reliable affordable rail service is essential for the North and these investments will ensure it remains a lifeline for communities and businesses. At the same time, we’re creating new opportunities in mining and mineral development – helping Indigenous communities build skills, secure good jobs and drive economic growth. This is a long-term investment in Manitoba’s future and in Canada’s clean energy transition.” 

Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor explained that as a maritime province located in the heart of North America, Manitoba is strategically positioned to ship commodities, critical minerals and natural resources.

“Developing the Port of Churchill will advance northern Manitoba’s economy, support trade expansion with Europe and strengthen our Arctic sovereignty as we position Manitoba as a gateway to the Arctic and to the world,” she said. 

Chris Avery, CEO, Arctic Gateway Group stated that the upcoming shipping season will see double the volume of critical minerals that will be shipped to internationally markets from the Port of Churchill.

“As a locally owned and operated Canadian organization, backed by 41 Indigenous and Bayline communities, Arctic Gateway Group will continue to step up and support working people, creating regional opportunities and diversifying the supply chain networks of this province and country,” he said.    

The AGG is a subsidiary company of OneNorth, a partnership of 41 First Nation and Bayline communities in Manitoba. The OneNorth community ownership model of the AGG demonstrates economic reconciliation in action, noted the minister. 

In August 2024, AGG and Hudbay Minerals Inc. piloted a successful 10,000-tonne zinc concentrate export shipment through the port, establishing Churchill as a northern trade critical minerals supply route.