The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC) recently announced that approximately 37 million tonnes of goods were shipped via the St. Lawrence Seaway during the 2024 navigation season. These results highlight the Seaway’s ongoing role as a vital element in the North American supply chain.
The 2024 navigation season, which opened on March 22, 2024 and closed January 10, 2025, spanned 295 days and was the longest planned season in history. This expanded season reflects the Seaway’s commitment to maintaining a predictable and reliable trade corridor for shippers and carriers.
In December, SLSMC announced an investment of over $350 million in infrastructure upgrades over the next three years. This investment will enhance critical infrastructure, ensuring strong supply chain links and a reliable transportation mode for the movement of goods.
“We are making significant investments in our infrastructure to ensure the Seaway’s continued reliability and efficiency well into the future,” said Jim Athanasiou, President and CEO of the St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation. “We are committed to supporting growth in North American industries, and can easily accommodate additional traffic within our existing capacity.”
Trends across major cargo segments indicate continued demand in key sectors. Grain experienced a year-over-year increase of 12%, while potash grew 14%. Meanwhile, liquid bulk increased 10% year-over-year, and general cargo increased 14%.
The St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corporation (SLSMC), on behalf of the Government of Canada, manages the Canadian portion of the waterway system and its associated lands. The binational St. Lawrence Seaway system serves as a key corridor and vital supply chain link for North America, driving significant economic activity.