Since its founding nearly two hundred years ago, the Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal has always been very active in strategic issues related to the development of the St. Lawrence.
The Chamber therefore added its voice to consultations about the maritime vision of the Ministère des Transports du Québec, which wanted feedback from all stakeholders to develop its maritime strategy for the 15-year period from 2020 to 2035.
In its brief, the Chamber presented its priorities for the development of the St. Lawrence River. Faced with changing consumer habits and the redevelopment of competing ports, the Ministère des Transports will have to take a series of actions to position the Port of Montreal and its logistics chain as a hub for North American freight transportation. For example, the city will need to expand the Contrecoeur terminal, develop a year-round trade corridor, and create an innovative logistics hub.
The St. Lawrence shapes not only Quebec’s economy but also its culture and landscape. We must preserve this ecological jewel and promote initiatives to create recreational areas that give people a sense of belonging toward the river. Preserving a healthy ecosystem and developing recreational activities will also increase the river’s appeal for tourists.
Brief available in French here