Canada Port Authorities and the global economic environment in which they operate have evolved significantly over the last two decades. Today, Canada’s ports not only contribute to our trade agenda by moving cargo, but also underpin the country’s broader trade and logistics ecosystem through greater integration with world trade and advancements in technology.
The Transport Canada Ports Modernization Review, launched in March 2018, was well-timed to address the ongoing evolution of Canada’s ports and their competitive position in the world. While CPAs have successfully met their current mandate to protect the environment, ensure port security and facilitate trade, the Review provided an opportunity to reimagine the future of ports. ACPA, in consultation with its members, identified ways to optimize and modernize the current model to protect strategic public assets and establish CPAs as global logistics leaders.
In 2019, ACPA issued 21 recommendations that would address foundational concerns and transform our port system in the areas of:
- Financial flexibility;
- Land acquisition and disposal;
- Governance and expediting Board appointments;
- New frontiers in data management;
- Indigenous relations; and
- Environmental sustainability.