As part of the Port of Montreal expansion project in Contrecœur, the Montreal Port Authority (MPA) and DP World in Canada – a joint venture between DP World and institutional investor La Caisse – have entered into a joint development agreement for the design of the land-based works of a future container terminal. 

DP World will make the future Contrecœur terminal its sixth port facility in Canada, joining Fraser Surrey, Nanaimo, Prince Rupert, Saint John, and Vancouver. 

Land works and operations will be under the responsibility of DP World, which will lead the construction of the terminal and ensure its operation and maintenance for the next 40 years. The terminal is slated to open in 2030. 

The new terminal will have an annual capacity of 1.15m teu with two berths, a rail yard and connected services in an industrial zone.

Doug Smith, CEO of DP World in Canada, said the Contrecœur terminal will serve as a “true economic engine” for Quebec and eastern Canada.

It comes at a time when Ottawa is adjusting its trade outlook, looking for greater transatlantic business with Europe with trading ties with neighbour, the US, souring since Donald Trump returned to the White House in January.