🇨🇦 Governments Of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Arctic Gateway Group sign agreement to bolster northern trade

HUNTSVILLE, Ont., Robinson-Huron Treaty 61—The governments of Manitoba and Saskatchewan, along with Arctic Gateway Group (AGG), have agreed to enhance infrastructure, streamline supply chains and boost access to global markets via Canada’s only deepwater Arctic port, Premier Wab Kinew and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe announced here today at the Council of the Federation’s summer meeting.

“Churchill presents huge opportunities when it comes to mining, agriculture and energy,” said Kinew. “Through this agreement with AGG and Saskatchewan, we are going to unlock new opportunities for businesses in Manitoba and Saskatchewan to get goods to market.”

Manitoba, Saskatchewan and AGG have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish a renewed Arctic trade corridor through the Port of Churchill. The MOU outlines a five‑year roadmap with annual progress reviews, formalizing a shared commitment to:

• expand infrastructure – AGG will invest in port and rail assets and lengthen the shipping season to support increased freight capacity;
• activate trade networks – the Saskatchewan government will mobilize commodity producers and exporters through its trade offices and regional industry partners; and
• mobilize federal support – the Manitoba government will lead efforts to secure federal infrastructure funding and regulatory support to improve connectivity to northern markets.

“Saskatchewan remains committed to strengthening trade across Canada by supporting and developing new transportation corridors,” said Moe. “Streamlining access to ports, such as Churchill, will allow our goods better access to new and emerging international markets. Today’s MOU between Saskatchewan and Manitoba is another way we are building on that progress and creating new opportunities for our industries.”

“The governments of Manitoba and Saskatchewan understand the strategic value of the Port of Churchill and Hudson Bay Railway, especially as Canada looks to diversify trade and become an energy superpower,” said Chris Avery, CEO, Arctic Gateway Group. “This joint commitment from premiers Kinew and Moe is a clear signal that Canada’s Arctic trade corridor will play a major role in this country’s trade and transportation future. As an established, efficient link to world markets, with economic reconciliation built into everything we do, the Port of Churchill is actively shipping, open for business and ready to deliver for Prairie producers and Canadian exports – while returning the benefits to AGG’s Indigenous and northern ownership communities.”

This collaboration continues Manitoba’s long‑standing dedication to northern Indigenous and community partnerships, climate stewardship and regional economic growth. The MOU also supports national objectives of Arctic sovereignty and supply chain diversification.