Port of Churchill operator signs partnership with potash mining company

The Port of Churchill is seen in an undated, aerial image. (File Image)

The company behind the Port of Churchill has signed a letter of intent with a Manitoba-based potash mine and development company which aims to make Manitoba a leading global supplier of sustainable potash.

The letter of intent between Arctic Gateway Group and the Potash and Agri Development Corporation of Manitoba (PADCOM), announced on Wednesday, aims to support collaboration on a range of shared priorities, according to a news release.

This includes collaboration on logistics to enhance rail and port capacity for potash shipments, environmental stewardship and market expansion opportunities for Manitoba potash.

“Working together, we can increase competitiveness for Manitoba’s potash sector while building on our strong commitment to community benefits, Indigenous partnerships, and environmental responsibility,” said Daymon Guillas, president of PADCOM.

According to the release, the Manitoba-based company has made substantial investments in the development of a potash deposit in Harrowby, Man., which is expected to produce up to 250,000 tonnes of potash per year. The potash development, which is the first for Manitoba, was approved in June 2022.

The Port of Churchill, owned and operated by Arctic Gateway Group, offers access to global markets with reduced shipping times. It continues to see significant infrastructure investments, the release said. The port is also Canada’s only Arctic seaport serviced by rail.

“This work will not only boost Manitoba’s competitiveness in the global potash market but also drive meaningful employment and economic opportunities for Indigenous and northern communities through increased rail and port activity,” said Chris Avery, president and CEO of Arctic Gateway Group.

Construction presently underway at the Port of Churchill includes modernization of the wharf and a new critical mineral storage facility that triples the port’s storage capacity, the release said.