Port of Prince Rupert sees slight cargo volume dip in 2024

The Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) reported 23.1 million tonnes of cargo moved through the port in 2024, marking a one per cent decline from the previous year.

Intermodal volumes at DP World Prince Rupert’s Fairview Container Terminal rose five per cent, despite challenges including realigned transpacific trade routes, labour disruptions and a brief rail service suspension caused by wildfires.

Energy exports showed strong growth, as AltaGas’ Ridley Island Propane Export Terminal shipped 2.3 million tonnes of liquified petroleum gas (LPG), a 15 per cent increase, and Pembina’s Watson Island terminal handled 502,800 tonnes. Drax’s Westview Wood Pellet Terminal exported 1.2 million tonnes of biofuel to Europe and Asia.

Agricultural exports surged 26 per cent at the Prince Rupert Grain Terminal, reaching 4.5 million tonnes, and coal exports at Trigon Pacific Terminals dropped 23 per cent.

Despite the decline in total cargo volumes, PRPA advanced several strategic projects, including $2.5 billion in investments to improve capacity, efficiency and diversification.

“The 2024 results highlight the critical nature of the ongoing projects that will advance Prince Rupert as a full-service port and affirm our position as a key player in global trade and energy security,” said Shaun Stevenson, PRPA president and CEO.

Major developments included the $1.35-billion Ridley Island Energy Export Facility (REEF), which began construction in 2024 and will bolster Canadian LPG exports to Asia Pacific. Additionally, the Canada Infrastructure Bank finalized a $150-million loan for CANXPORT, a large-scale export logistics facility expected to handle 400,000 TEUs annually.

Trigon Pacific Terminals also progressed on its second marine berth, expected to enhance vessel capacity when completed later this year.