During a speech by its President and CEO, Julie Gascon, before members of the Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal, the Montreal Port Authority (MPA) today released its preliminary cargo results for 2025. While total volume declined by 3% to 34.3 million tonnes from 35.4 million tonnes in 2024, the containerized sector posted an increase of 3.6% at 1.5 million TEUs.
There was a decline in dry bulk (-6%), attributable to weather conditions that affected harvests, following record years in 2024 and 2023. Liquid bulk also dropped by 1.6%, linked to the decrease in energy demand.
The Port of Montreal remains balanced in terms of trade, with comparable import and export volumes–a key indicator of the stability and diversification of its activities.
Significance of diversification
“The 2025 results clearly show that diversification is no longer an option, but a necessity,” said Julie Gascon. “Montreal is a destination port city, profoundly connected to the world, whose strategic infrastructure links the people and businesses of Quebec and Canada to international markets.
“This openness is one of our greatest strengths. By investing today in our capabilities, especially through the expansion project in Contrecœur, we are strengthening the resilience of our supply chains, supporting businesses in their diversification efforts, and contributing directly to Canada’s economic sovereignty in an increasingly complex geopolitical context.”
The MPA stressed that the 2025 results reaffirm Montréal’s central role as a port city, where international connectivity represents a clear strategic advantage for both the Québec and Canadian economies. Trade with the Mediterranean region increased by 1.5%, driven in particular by a 44% surge in trade with Morocco. Imports of fruit from Morocco rose by 137%, while exports of lentils to this market jumped by 154%.
Trade with Africa also increased by 39%, with tonnage doubling with Côte d’Ivoire and Benin and growing 53% with Nigeria. The Port also continued strengthening its ties with key markets such as India and China, confirming its role as a preferred gateway to Europe, Asia and emerging markets.
National stakes of Contrecœur expansion project
Against a backdrop of export market diversification, the Port of Montreal’s Contrecœur expansion project, recognized as a project of national interest, achieved several milestones in 2025. The MPA signed a joint development agreement with DP World Canada, launched preparatory work, and initiated environmental compensation measures.
This expansion, which aims to add 1.15 million containers to the Port of Montreal’s handling capacity, is in line with the federal government’s goal of doubling Canadian exports outside the United States.
(Photo courtesy of MPA)