The investment will reportedly expand container capacity and strengthen Canada’s Eastern Trade Gateway as the Port of Montreal supports Canada’s attempts to double non-U.S. exports.
Contrecoeur (CNW Group/Canada Infrastructure Bank)
CONTRECŒUR — Canada’s largest east coast port expansion is moving forward as the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) announces that it is supporting the new Contrecoeur container terminal by loaning $1.16 billion to the Montreal Port Authority (MPA).
The investment and partnership between the CIB and the MPA will provide Canada with new public infrastructure meant to support future trade growth.
The investment will reportedly expand container capacity and strengthen Canada’s Eastern Trade Gateway as the Port of Montreal supports Canada’s attempts to double non-U.S. exports.
The Government of Quebec is reportedly contributing $130 million; Transport Canada is providing $150 million, and the full financing will be repaid through autonomous revenues and the contribution of the private sector as terminal operator. According to the CIB in a press release, more than 85% of infrastructure costs will ultimately be borne by the private sector.
Construction of critical in-water works including dredging, quay wall construction and other infrastructure required for vessel access and operations reportedly began in October 2025 and is being delivered by a joint venture between Aecon and Pomerleau.
CIB also stated that in 2027, work is expected to begin on building out terminal and logistics infrastructure, with commercial operations targeted for 2030.
In a press release, CIB also stated that DP World is in exclusive discussions with the MPA to serve as terminal operator.
The MPA expects the project will generate jobs during construction, and support supply chain resiliency efforts across Canada.
The project also leverages existing transportation infrastructure, including Highway 30 and the CN rail connection, reducing the need for new land-based construction, according to the CIB in a press release.
“Strengthening Canada’s ports to expand trade and grow the economy is a core priority for the Canada Infrastructure Bank. Our loan towards Contrecoeur supports a project of national importance — one of the largest eastern port expansions in Canadian history — and will deliver lasting benefits for Canada’s economy for decades to come,” said Ehren Cory, CEO, Canada Infrastructure Bank.