DP World and MPA partner for Contrecœur terminal expansion project
Under the agreement, the MPA and DP World will finalise the terminal’s design and the terms of the construction and operating contract in the coming months. The contract will become effective with the commencement of land works.
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The expansion project, announced in October 2023, adopts a hybrid approach with in-water works managed by the MPA in partnership with Contrecœur Terminal Constructors General Partnership (CTCGP).
DP World will oversee all land-related activities and operations, taking charge of the terminal’s construction, which includes the container yard, buildings, utilities, and rail connections.
Additionally, the company will manage the terminal’s operation and maintenance for the subsequent 40 years.
“This project is designed not only to meet the growing need for business diversification but also to create long-term value by supporting Canadian economic sovereignty as global trade evolves. We are a maritime nation, and the future of international commerce will pass through our ports.”
The next key steps for the Contrecœur expansion project include the start of site preparation work in 2025, subject to necessary approvals.
The design phase for land works will also commence, with the selection of a designer to collaborate with DP World.
By 2026, in-water works will begin, and the terminal design, construction, and operating agreements with DP World will be finalised.
Land-based works are slated to start in 2027, with the new container terminal expected to be completed and operational by 2030.
DP World Canada CEO Doug Smith said: “We’re honoured to deliver this transformational project, which will elevate the Port of Montreal’s role in global trade and diversify Canadian trade.
“More importantly, the Contrecœur terminal will serve as a true economic engine for Quebec and Eastern Canada – creating thousands of jobs during construction and driving long-term prosperity through expanded trade capacity. This project will not only strengthen the region’s position in global commerce but also deliver lasting benefits for local communities and businesses.”
The MPA is concurrently developing compensation plans, monitoring programmes, and mitigation measures to comply with the conditions of the favourable decision received in March 2021.
These plans and programmes, created in cooperation with government agency experts and Indigenous communities, will be submitted to the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada (IAAC) and made public following established procedures.
With a planned investment of $800m over the concession period, DP World aims to enhance the port’s infrastructure and establish it as a key trade hub connecting Southern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.
