Port of Vancouver explores terminal partnership

Supported by Canada’s Major Projects Office, the memorandum of agreement sets out a framework for collaboration, with both parties committing to share information and work toward a potential joint development agreement. The move reflects growing urgency to expand container capacity at Canada’s largest port, which plays a central role in national trade and economic performance.

“Increasing container capacity is essential to Canada’s ability to compete, grow and trade with the world,” said Peter Xotta, president and chief executive of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority.

“This MOU moves us into planning for the next stage of project delivery with an opportunity for partnership with a Canadian-owned operator with a strong track record.”

Under the terms of the MOU, the two organisations will work exclusively together over a one-year period to assess the operational, commercial and strategic benefits of a partnership. While VFPA will continue to lead development of the terminal landmass, including permitting and engagement with Indigenous communities, GCT will contribute its expertise as a long-standing container terminal operator with existing operations at nearby Deltaport.

“Strong, reliable trade infrastructure is fundamental to Canada’s economic strength and we are excited to work alongside the VFPA to explore how our operational expertise and long-term investment capacity can contribute to the successful delivery of RBT2,” said Eric Waltz, president and chief executive of GCT.

As part of the agreement, GCT will withdraw its separate application for the Deltaport Berth 4 expansion project and instead focus on advancing RBT2, aligning efforts behind a single major infrastructure initiative.