Arctic Gateway, Hudbay to increase critical mineral exports from Port of Churchill

The Arctic Gateway Group (AGG) on March 3 announced it will ramp up its critical mineral export partnership with Hudbay Minerals Inc., which will double the volume of critical minerals shipped through the Port of Churchill in Manitoba, Canada.

AGG also plans to triple current critical mineral storage capacity at the Port of Churchill, setting the stage for the continued growth of critical mineral exports from the Port of Churchill and the use of the Hudson Bay Railway.

“We’ve restored the Hudson Bay Railway to the best condition it has been in over 25 years, and we’re keeping it strong by investing in new advanced railway tools," said Arctic Gateway Group CEO Chris Avery in a press release. "We’ve proven that we’re ready to haul, store and export Western Canada’s critical minerals to international markets, and have secured the confidence of private sector partners to do so."

The minerals that will be shipped through the port are abundant in Manitoba, said Hudbay Vice President of the Manitoba Business Unit Rob Carter.

"We are committed to working alongside our partners to create a thriving and sustainable future for this region and for all Manitobans, leveraging the Port of Churchill and Hudson Bay Railway as a vital export gateway," Carter said. "The future of the Port of Churchill and Manitoba's critical mineral sector is bright and Hudbay is ready to play a leading role in that future.”

AGG had a historic construction season in 2024, completing significant upgrades along the Hudson Bay Railway between The Pas and Churchill, Manitoba, AGG officials said. The work included 2.3 million feet of spot surfacing, 119,965 new ties, three major grade crossing rehabilitations and over 1,600 cars of ballast.

The AGG is a partnership of 41 First Nation and Bayline communities in Manitoba. The Hudson Bay Railway — which is owned and operated by the group — provides passenger- and freight-rail services.

The Canadian and Manitoba governments have reaffirmed their commitment to AGG’s operations and investing in Canada’s Arctic Trade Corridor, AGG officials said. As a result, more port upgrades will be pursued this year to prepare for future import and export growth. Efforts in 2025 will include planning for wharf rebuilding, dredging preparation, grain elevator maintenance and upgrades, facility investments and long-term site design improvements.