Originally published by the Saint-Lawrence Ship-Operators; “OPINION: To launch nation-building projects, Ottawa must maximize the full potential of the St. Lawrence and Great Lakes corridor”. Read the original article on armateurs.ca.
The St. Lawrence–Great Lakes corridor is one of the most strategically important economic assets in North America, contributing $66.1 Billion CAD to the North American economy and supporting almost 360,000 jobs. Yet the full potential of this unique and strategic conduit for inland and cross border trade has yet to be realized. As part of our shared ambition to build the strongest economy in the G7, the marine industry calls on the Government of Canada to:
- Utilize its new $5 Billion Trade Diversification Corridors Fund to invest in the Seaway, the Canadian commercial fleet, and key ports so the marine industry can set targeted navigation season extension dates and adapt infrastructure;
- Ensure the government funds adequate icebreaking support; and
- Support collaboration to ensure the needs of all stakeholders are considered in this growth initiative, including the engagement of marine organizations and Indigenous partners who have been integral to the success of the system.
The current global context reinforces this imperative. Shipping corridors comprised of major international ports such as Rotterdam, Antwerp and Hamburg, are investing heavily in decarbonization, automation, real-time operational data management, and digital platforms. They are preparing for fiercer competition and greater supply chain instability. Canada cannot afford to sit on the sidelines when we have a key asset in place and capacity to grow – today. We can build on the natural and long-standing strategic advantage of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway corridor with a lengthening of the navigation season, and in doing so, support new opportunities and commerce across provinces envisioned by the Federal Government that will fortify the country’s long-term economic strength.
Given Canada’s focus on developing new global partnerships and pursuing projects of national scope to address rapidly changing economic circumstances, we have a unique opportunity to make the St. Lawrence–Great Lakes corridor a means to realize our shared goals, and make the corridor one of the world’s most efficient, resilient, and sustainable maritime systems. It is now up to all of us to work strategically and collaboratively, and we stand ready to act together and act quickly.
The participants in the letter:
