Snuneymuxw First Nation, Port of Nanaimo and DP World commemorate project launch. Photo credit: DP World
NANAIMO – DP World has started construction on an expansion at the Port of Nanaimo that will nearly double its terminal length and expand cargo-handling capacity to 280,000, 20-foot equivalent units annually – a 10-fold increase in current volumes.
DP World operates the container operations at the Port of Nanaimo and is a global leader in logistics and supply chains, operating ports in Vancouver, Fraser Surrey and Prince Rupert in B.C. The expansion in Nanaimo is aimed at helping to alleviate volumes at the Port of Vancouver and give Nanaimo direct access to global markets.
It includes extending the existing berth from 182 to 325 metres, enabling it to allow larger international vessels to dock at Duke Point, replacing the existing diesel quay crane with two fully-electric quay cranes, expanding the container storage area – including refrigerated containers, and adding coverage storage capacity.
By doing so, it will provide improved services for importers and exporters, and facilitate smoother regional and international trade, along with establishing a short-sea shipping connection between Nanaimo and Vancouver, with the goal of improving trade routes to Asia.
“By expanding Duke Point Terminal, we’re not just building additional infrastructure – we’re investing in a future where Vancouver Island is a key driver of global trade,” says DP World CEO Doug Smith. “The extended berth will help position Vancouver Island as a key hub for international commerce, underscoring our ongoing commitment to pioneering sustainable, resilient supply chains.”
The project is supported by Snuneymuxw First Nation, and is supported by a 50-year lease agreement between DP World and the Port of Nanaimo, both of which were important first steps in the planned terminal expansion. The project was funded through combined public and private investments, including $46.2 million from the federal government’s National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF) and $15 million from the Province of British Columbia under the Regional Port Enhancement Program.
Ian Marr, President and CEO of the Port of Nanaimo, says “Through projects like the Duke Point Phase 2/3 Terminal Expansion, the Port of Nanaimo, and our partners, are creating cooperative solutions to current operating constraints in the supply chain. This is a catalyst for reconciliation, diversification, job creation in our local community, and co-operative economic development opportunities for BC and Canada.”
Port of Nanaimo Chair Donna Hais adds: “Increased warehousing and distribution capacity on Vancouver Island improves local access to food, medical supplies, construction materials, and consumer goods. This enhances our local and national resilience to supply chain disruptions caused by climate change events, labour disputes, marine traffic congestion, and geopolitical challenges.”
Business Examiner
