In a landmark event for Canada’s resource sector, the first critical minerals load in two decades shipped out from Port of Churchill, Manitoba.
Hudbay Minerals sourced the zinc at their Snow Lake operation and the transport was managed by the Arctic Gateway Group, a Manitoba First Nations-owned entity. Both companies started working together in 2020.
AGG, which is in charge of the Port of Churchill and the Hudson Bay Railway, has been at the forefront of efforts to restore and enhance these crucial transportation links. The Hudson Bay Railway is a historic over 1,000-kilometre-long Canadian National track that is now owned by AGG. The shipment took place before the current rail stoppage.
The Aug. 16 shipment is a step towards the revitalization of the Hudson Bay Railway and the expansion of trade in the Arctic corridor.
The two organizations have partnered to facilitate the export of critical minerals through the Port of Churchill. The port currently stands as Canada’s only Arctic sea trade post equipped with rail service.
AGG has been actively working on improvements to the Hudson Bay Railway this past year. These efforts include sweeping rail tie repairs, crossing fixes, and enhancing bridges to ensure the railway’s reliability and efficiency. These upgrades are vital for the continued operation and future expansion of the port, which plays a key role in Canada’s northern supply chain.
Over the summer, rail cars loaded with zinc were delivered to Port of Churchill, where they were stored in a new warehouse.
Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, hailed the successful shipment as a testament to the power of collaboration between government entities and Indigenous leadership.
“With a revitalized Hudson Bay Railway and Port of Churchill, jobs will be created, mining and forestry opportunities will open, and Bayline communities will have the opportunity to position themselves as a true gateway to the Arctic and the world,” said Vandal.
As reported by True North in June, TD Analysts predicted that Canada could boost its GDP by over half a trillion dollars if it harnesses its abundant critical minerals reserves.
In recognition of the strategic importance of the Port of Churchill and the Hudson Bay Railway, federal and provincial partners announced in February 2024 $60 million in funding to support AGG’s projects.
This funding is intended to expedite the Hudson Bay Railway’s completion and the port’s retrofit, both of which project managers expect to be fully operational by 2028.
The economic impact of these projects is projected to be substantial. By 2028, the revitalized rail and port is estimated to contribute $1 billion per year to the Canadian economy, and sustain 5,500 jobs.
