St. Lawrence Seaway opens for shipping season

This is the 68th year of operations moving goods between Canada, US and the world.

The shipping season is underway along the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Government officials from Canada and the United States were on hand at the St. Lambert Lock in Montreal to launch the 68th year of the operation.

Amid the ongoing trade tensions between the two countries, the seaway continues to be a joint, bi-national operation that sees tonnes of cargo including grain and energy moved through the St. Lawrence River and the Great Lakes. They are emphasizing the important trade relationship between Canada and the US and the vital link the seaway provides to the North American supply chain.

In a news release, the St. Lawrence Seaway has been incrementally extending its navigation season in a responsible and consistent manner. They say it will provide greater flexibility for shippers while maintaining its commitment to safety and operational excellence. 

They go on to say that the measured extensions reflect strong coordination between Canadian and US partners, and reinforce the long-term strength of the trade corridor.  

“With supply chains facing new pressures, reliable marine corridors like the St. Lawrence Seaway are essential to our economic resilience,” says Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon in a statement.

“The Government of Canada will continue to support the Seaway’s critical role in our transportation 
system, ensuring it remains reliable and efficient for the years ahead.”  

The shipping season on the seaway runs until January 2027.

Story by Ken Hashizume