St. Lawrence Seaway posts strong start to season amid economic uncertainty

The St. Lawrence Seaway’s 67th season is off to a strong start, despite global economic uncertainty.

By the end of April, 4.5 million tonnes of cargo had moved through the system, that’s a 3.7 per cent increase over the previous year. Agriculture products played a big part in this increase.

All grain products were up 22 per cent, liquid bulk saw a 15 per cent gain and dry bulk saw an increase of 7 per cent.

Iron ore was down 24 per cent, coal dropped 28 per cent and general cargo was down 18 per cent.

The increases offset the lower opening for other commodities.

The Chamber of Marine Commerce says the latest numbers show how Canadian grain and potash producers have been stepping up to meet increased global demand.

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The 2024 season was the longest ever and saw about 37 million tonnes of goods shipped via the seaway, including grain, potash and steel.

The seaway’s president Jim Athanasiou says steady performance shows the corridor continues to support North American trade reliably and efficiently.

2025’s shipping season began back on March 22 and will run until early January 2026.

READ MORE: St. Lawrence Seaway kicks off new season amid trade uncertainty