Cargo volume on the St. Lawrence Seaway totaled 24,030,000 metric tons in the 2025 navigation season to end-September, representing a 1.2% increase from the corresponding period in 2024, according to statistics released by the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC). A sharp drop of nearly 30% in general cargo to 1.5 million tons appeared to reflect the impact of the Trump administration’s high tariffs on steel imports.
However, grain shipments continued their strong momentum, amounting to 7.5 million tons year-to-date, representing a 20% increase. Dry bulk was up 3.4% while iron ore and coal volumes were down.
Meanwhile, the closing dates set by the US and Canadian Seaway corporations have indicated that all ships must be clear of the MLO section by 12.00 on January 5, 2026, of the Welland Canal by 12.00 on January 10, and of the Sault Ste. Marie locks and Canal by January 15.
(SLSMC photo of Welland Canal)