Montreal reports record throughput in 2019

MONTREAL – The Port of Montreal had another record year in 2019 in terms of the total volume of goods handled, the sixth year in a row, according to its preliminary results.

For the first time in its history, the port surpassed the 40 million tonne mark in cargo handled, reaching 40.5 million tonnes, up 4.1 percent over 2018.

A new record was also set on the container front, with a total of 1.75 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) handled and an increase of 4.4 percent over last year.

The year was also marked by solid results on the bulk front. The dry bulk sector had a 15.9 percent upswing in tonnage with a total of 9.3 tonnes. Notably, grain increased by 109 percent. Liquid bulk remained stable at 16.2 million tonnes.

Major projects for the future

The year 2019 also saw major decisions for several projects, aimed at preparing for the growth of freight traffic at the port.

The Contrecœur Terminal project received financial support from Canada Infrastructure Bank with an investment of up to $300 million, confirming the project’s public interest vocation and national scope.

The MPA is also moving forward on planning and carrying out several other infrastructure projects, including:

• The second phase of work at Viau Terminal, completing terminal construction and increasing container handling capacity by 250,000 TEUs;
• Works to increase rail capacity, contributing to freight traffic fluidity;
• Redevelopment of Bickerdike Terminal, making it possible to considerably improve this infrastructure that is the main base for supplies to Newfoundland and the Magdalen Islands.

A predictive version of the Trucking PORTal was also launched. This integration of artificial intelligence into port operations will help truck drivers plan their trips even better and improve the flow of traffic on Port territory, thereby reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

A new exhibition has also opened at the Port Centre located at the Port of Montreal’s Grand Quay. Entitled All aboard!, this free exhibition gives the public a better understanding of port activities through fun and interactive activities.