Future of Canadian Ports on ACPA’s Agenda

Canada’s Port Authorities have gathered in Belledune, NB, for the Association of Canadian Port Authorities’ (ACPA) annual conference to plot Canada’s economic course through these changing maritime trade winds. The agenda includes intense discussions about the economic importance of ports and their position at the centre of 21st century supply chains.

“Over the last decade, with an uncertain global economy, the maritime industry has shown that it can be innovative in building partnerships, significantly benefiting our Canadian transportation system,” said Rayburn Doucett, President and CEO of the Belledune Port Authority.

“Our conference will encourage the creation of effective partnerships to help usher in a new era of maritime industry cooperation within Canada.”

As Canada continues to pursue international trade agreements — like the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with the European Union — the importance of efficient ports grows significantly. Stronger ports means stronger supply chains for all industries. More trade necessitates the expansion of port infrastructure.

The World Bank recently ranked Canada as the world’s 14th most efficient nation in its trading practices — based on efficiency of clearing process, quality of infrastructure, the ease of arranging competitively priced shipments and other key factors. Delegates at the ACPA conference will discuss how to improve that standing.

“In our view, 14th is not good enough for one of the world’s leading trading nations,” said Wendy Zatylny, President of the Association of Canadian Port Authorities.

“Our goal should be to break into the top 10, and we are confident that we can achieve that goal.

With the partnership and support of the Government of Canada, Canada’s Port Authorities will be able to ensure our infrastructure is able to support expanded international trade and that our supply chains operate smoothly and efficiently. Making port infrastructure a priority has never been more critical.”

The conference also includes a trade show to provide marine industry exhibitors with a unique opportunity to showcase their services and network with the delegates and executives of the ACPA membership.