Manitoba Premier to Visit Churchill as Port Expansion Talks Gain Momentum

Wab Kinew announced that he will visit Churchill, Manitoba as talks continue over a proposed expansion of the Port of Churchill, an initiative aimed at boosting northern trade and economic development. The visit comes amid growing interest from a major energy company engaging with provincial officials on potential investment and infrastructure opportunities tied to the port’s future.

Kinew, who has long championed the idea of transforming the Port of Churchill into a strategic trade hub, said the project could play a key role in connecting western Canada to international markets, particularly via Hudson Bay, and may involve private-sector partners exploring various configurations for railway, pipeline or terminal infrastructure. He made the remarks following meetings at a first ministers gathering in Ottawa.

Although details about the prospective partner and specific plans remain under wraps due to ongoing negotiations and non-disclosure agreements, Kinew said provincial officials are preparing to sign agreements that would allow more detailed information to be shared as planning progresses. The move reflects efforts to open discussions with the private sector and attract significant capital for long-term development.

Expanding the Port of Churchill — a deep-water facility on the shore of Hudson Bay — could have far-reaching implications for trade, especially for agricultural and energy exports. The port’s location offers direct access to European and Asian markets if icebreaking capability can extend the shipping season. Canada’s federal government has previously acknowledged the potential of the project as part of broader efforts to diversify export options beyond traditional routes.

Kinew’s visit is also expected to involve consultations with Indigenous and northern stakeholders, including representatives from Nunavut’s territorial government, about how the port expansion could benefit communities across Canada’s North. Government officials say such engagement is critical to ensuring infrastructure projects deliver inclusive economic opportunities.

While the idea of harnessing Churchill has been discussed for decades, proponents like Kinew argue that recent interest from private industry and federal engagement could finally move the project from concept toward reality. Supporters say success could create jobs, strengthen supply chains and enhance Canada’s competitive position in global trade, particularly with markets in Europe and Asia.