The Montreal Port Authority has signed a joint development agreement with DP World in Canada, a partnership between DP World and La Caisse, to make the proposed Contrecœur port expansion project a reality.

The expansion site is located in the Montreal suburb of Contrecoeur, Que. The port authority said the construction project will generate generate 8,000 jobs and strengthen a world-class logistics hub in the St. Lawrence Valley.

“The agreement with DP World here in Canada marks a decisive step in realizing the Port of Montreal expansion project in Contrecœur,” said Julie Gascon, the port authority’s president and CEO. “By leveraging innovation, sustainability, and the expertise of a world-class partner, we are strengthening the Port of Montreal’s strategic role as an economic engine for Quebec and Canada. This project is designed not only to meet the growing need for business diversification but also to create long-term value by supporting Canadian economic sovereignty as global trade evolves.”

The agreement covers the design of land-based works for a new container terminal, with DP World assuming responsibility for construction, operation and maintenance for 40 years.

Site preparation is set to begin in 2025, followed by in-water works in 2026 and land-based works in 2027. The project is expected to be completed by 2030, adding capacity for 1.15 million twenty-foot equivalent units.

Doug Smith, CEO of DP World in Canada, called the project “transformational,” adding that it will elevate the port’s role in global trade and diversify Canadian commerce while creating thousands of jobs during construction and driving long-term prosperity through expanded trade capacity.

Located in Quebec’s main consumer and importer hub, the Contrecœur terminal will include two berths, a container yard, rail and truck connections, and support facilities.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has pledged that his government will invest in the expansion project.

On Thursday, Carney will announce the first projects to receive financing under a new federal infrastructure fast-tracking program.

Pictured: Port of Montreal expansion project site in Contrecoeur, Que.

Photo: Port of Montreal