Port of Montreal sees container growth in 2025 despite global trade uncertainty

The Port of Montreal handled 34.3 million tonnes of cargo in 2025, with container volumes rising 3.6 per cent despite economic and geopolitical uncertainty, according to the Montreal Port Authority (MPA).

The authority said container growth outpaced projected global trade growth of between two and three per cent, reflecting the port’s ability to adapt to shifting international trade flows. Import and export volumes remained balanced, which the MPA described as a sign of stable and diversified activity.

Dry bulk volumes fell six per cent due to weather-related impacts on harvests following record years in 2023 and 2024, while liquid bulk declined 1.6 per cent amid lower energy demand.

The port also reported increased trade with Africa and the Mediterranean region. Trade with Africa rose 39 per cent, while trade with the Mediterranean grew 1.5 per cent, including a 44 per cent increase with Morocco.

The MPA said progress was made in 2025 on the Contrecœur expansion project, which aims to add 1.15 million containers to the port’s capacity. The project includes a joint development agreement with DP World Canada and the launch of preparatory and environmental offsetting work.

“The 2025 results clearly show that diversification is no longer an option, but a necessity. Montreal is a destination port city, profoundly connected to the world, whose strategic infrastructure links the people and businesses of Quebec and Canada to international markets,” said Julie Gascon, president and CEO of the MPA. “This openness is one of our greatest strengths. By investing today in our capabilities, especially through the expansion project in Contrecœur, we are strengthening the resilience of our supply chains, supporting businesses in their diversification efforts,and contributing directly to Canada’s economic sovereignty in an increasingly complex geopolitical context.”