February 24, 2021
The Duke Point Terminal lease agreement was finalized today, February 24, 2021, with the signing of a 50-year lease agreement between the Port of Nanaimo and DP World.
The Duke Point agreement will provide a long-term port-to-port solution for short-sea shipping between Nanaimo and Vancouver, as well as expand direct access from Nanaimo to global import/export markets via direct calls to Asia.
DP World is the leading enabler of global trade and one of the world’s largest port operators. The project will enhance DP World’s coast-to-coast Canadian footprint which includes terminal operations in Vancouver, Surrey, Prince Rupert, and Saint John. The company has invested significantly across its Ports, Logistics & Maritime Services businesses, providing customers with integrated logistics solutions and removing inefficiencies from the supply chain.
The signed agreement is an important first step in the planned terminal expansion, currently estimated at $105 million. It is funded through a mix of public and private investment, including a $46.2 million federal contribution through the National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF) and a $15 million provincial contribution as a part of B.C.’s Economic Recovery Plan.
The project includes an extension of the existing berth from 182 metres to 325 metres and the construction of a new truck gate, warehouse and administration and maintenance building. The existing diesel quay crane will be replaced with two 16 container-wide electric quay cranes. The terminal’s container yard storage area will be increased, creating an overall terminal operational capacity of 280,000 TEUs. Upgrades to drainage, sewer, electrical, water and security systems are also included in the terminal project outline.
Quotes:
“This project will solidify Vancouver Island on international markets, initially through the short sea shipping links to the Lower Mainland and subsequently to direct calls in Nanaimo.”
Ian Marr
President and CEO, Port of Nanaimo
“Following the recent renewal of our relationship agreements with the Snuneymuxw First Nation, the City of Nanaimo and the Regional District of Nanaimo, the Port of Nanaimo is excited to bring news regarding the signing of the Nanaimo – Duke Point terminal lease agreement with our valued partner DP World. The Federal and Provincial funding we have received for this project is a win for all of Vancouver Island, as it provides stimulus to our economy and creates jobs in the region.”
Donna Hais
Chair, Nanaimo Port Authority
“The Duke Point Expansion Project will bring Vancouver Island to world markets and put the Island on an even playing field with the rest of Canada in terms of trade. In addition to the significant creation of local jobs, it will also highlight Vancouver Island’s advantage in industrial land availability and affordability in comparison to the Lower Mainland.
The introduction of the Duke Point LO/LO (lift-off/lift-on) operation represents a significant milestone in shifting the BC transportation industry from a truck-based, single modal connection to a multimodal transportation industry where truck transport in part will be replaced with short-sea shipping, resulting in significant GHG reductions. DP World is proud to be an enabler of growth and trade development for Vancouver Island and Canada.”
Maksim Mihic
CEO and General Manager, DP World (Canada) Inc.
“Our $15 million investment into Phase 2 of the Duke Point Expansion Project will help enhance the Port of Nanaimo’s access to international markets and allow Vancouver Island cargo to move more efficiently and competitively. This economic recovery funding supports businesses, creates good-paying jobs, and provides the necessary infrastructure to boost our provincial economy, as we emerge from the pandemic.”
The Honourable Rob Fleming
B.C. Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
“Improving economic and social prosperity for this region is of great importance for our children and grandchildren to live together harmoniously and with a head start to shared prosperity. Part of this is respect for one another, including respect for the Snuneymuxw Treaty of 1854 and recognition of our treaty relationship with one another. By doing this simple step, unlocks socio-economic potential for everyone in the region including the Snuneymuxw People.
I am proud that the Nanaimo Port Authority and Snuneymuxw were able to come to a new foundation that can generate benefits for everyone, including Snuneymuxw First Nation, and through this new relationship framework I am focused to conclude an impact benefit agreement in real time.”
Chief Michael Wyse
Snuneymuxw First Nation
“This project stands to create significant economic opportunities for Nanaimo and central Vancouver Island. It will bring not only good-paying jobs, but places Nanaimo as an integral port hub when it comes to shipping and trade, both domestic and international. We couldn’t be more pleased to see this project moving forward.”
Mayor Leonard Krog
City of Nanaimo
Link to Virtual Announcement Video: https://npa.ca/news/
Note to editors and news directors: A version of the virtual event video will be made available for broadcast purposes upon request. Please contact
Media inquiries, please contact:
Ian Marr, President and CEO
Port of Nanaimo
(250) 753-4146
Angela Kirkham, Director, Communications & Sustainability
DP World
+1 604.880.7828
Media Relations
The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure
Government of B.C.
(250) 356-8241