Business opportunities
Commercial positioning and highlights
Globally, 2024 was an excellent year for the Port of Québec. In terms of tonnage, the port recorded a slight increase over last year, with a transhipment volume of approximately 27.8 million tonnes of cargo, compared to 27.7 million tonnes in 2022. This marks the third best performance in the last 10 years.
Supply chains
The Port of Québec occupies a central and crucial position in supply chains, playing an essential role in securing the imports and exports that fuel the national economy. As a strategic hub, our terminals facilitate the smooth transit of goods, contributing to the creation of collective wealth for the Canadian economy. Beyond its economic role, the Port of Québec also supports the daily activities of Québecers by supplying various sectors of activity. Goods transshipped through the Port of Québec are vital for many industries, from manufacturing to agri-food, demonstrating the essential role these goods play in everyday life. By supporting resilient and efficient supply chains, the Port of Québec remains a fundamental pillar of economic prosperity in Canada.
Agri-food
The agri-food industry, one of the Port of Québec’s major sectors of activity, plays an essential role in meeting global food needs, requiring robust logistics to ensure a continuous supply of agricultural raw materials. The Port of Québec is a key player in this supply chain, facilitating the efficient transportation of grain for animal and human consumption, raw sugar, fertilizer and salt. The Port, particularly for its G3 and Sollio operators, is actively committed to supporting the agri-food industry by providing state-of-the-art port infrastructure and adapted logistics services. This ensures smooth operations and helps to create an economically dynamic region. By focusing on operational efficiency and sustainability, G3, Sollio and the Port of Québec contribute to the sustainability of the agri-food industry, with volumes 19% higher than in 2022.
Transport, energy and petrochemicals
The Port of Québec plays an essential role in the transportation and petrochemical sector, contributing significantly to the smooth functioning of activities related to these fields. As a strategic hub, the port offers several transhipment points, facilitating the efficient movement of goods and resources. It is also home to the wharf of the largest refinery in Québec and major players such as IMTT and Parkland, all of which benefit the Port of Québec’s state-of-the-art infrastructure for their operations, reinforcing its position as a key catalyst for regional industrial development. The two terminals dedicated to the transshipment of refined products experienced a 4% lower level of traffic in 2023 compared to 2022. Road salt quantities, however, remained constant in 2023 compared to the previous year. These volumes are continually dependent not only on the impact of winter conditions, but also on salt demands beyond the regional market as well as domestic production.
In addition, the port is actively involved in the transition to more sustainable energy sources by promoting the transport of wood pellets, contributing to the development of the renewable energy sector and a reduced carbon footprint. In 2023, wood pellet exports reached a record level in this niche, replacing coal for electricity generation. This diversification of activities underscores the Port of Québec’s crucial role in promoting a robust and sustainable economy.
The Jean-Gaulin refinery, the second largest in Canada, is also located on the Port of Québec’s wharves. Its marine terminal generates considerable marine traffic on the St. Lawrence River, making it a crucial pillar in Québec’s energy security. In 2023, the use of ethanol, integrated into gasoline production, reduced GHG emissions from the transportation industry. Finally, chemical transport volumes remained stable over the same period.
Iron and steel
The steel industry, anchored in the Great Lakes region, forms part of Canada’s economic backbone. The steel sector saw a stable level of traffic compared to 2022. It should be noted that this industry, mainly concentrated in the Great Lakes region, generates several million tonnes of volume per year for the Port of Québec and its partner, QSL, in addition to calling on Canadian marine carriers. These volumes, which are entirely transhipped, do not require truck transport. Notably, the inward and outward flows of goods, such as iron pellets, are handled by companies in the Great Lakes region, which export their production to Europe and Asia. These materials are then transformed for use in numerous industries, such as the construction and automotive industries.
Construction
The construction industry is a mainstay of economic activity, and the Port of Québec plays a crucial role to ensure its smooth operation. At the heart of this dynamic is construction materials traffic, wherein the port constitutes a strategic link. With volumes reaching nearly two million tonnes per year, the Port of Québec facilitates the transportation of these essential materials for Québec City and Great Lakes companies, such as Béton Provincial and QSL. The construction sector had an excellent year in 2023, with volumes totalling nearly 1.3 million tonnes. Thanks to its modern infrastructure and its strategic geographic position, the Port of Québec contributes to maintaining the fluidity of trade and supporting the growth of the construction industry, in support of regional and national economic development.
Mining and metals
The mining industry, mainly in Canada’s North, occupies an important place in the national economy with major operations led by companies like Glencore. Mining activities provide essential resources for various industries around the world. However, the efficient routing of these resources to global markets is essential to ensure the smooth operation of different sectors of activity. This is where the Port of Québec comes into play. Traffic in 2023 was at a record high, particularly with respect to crews’ replenishment needs for mines in Canada’s North. For the port, this niche occupies a significant space and integrates well with the sector’s vocation since general goods, containerized or not, generate small volumes compared to bulk traffic.
Nationally, the Association of Canadian Port Authorities (ACPA) ports trade more than 340 million tonnes with more than 170 countries. With nearly 28 million tonnes handled in 2023 and serving many strategic industries, Québec City plays an essential role in Canada’s port network
If we consider the indirect impact (suppliers of goods and services to the Canadian Port Authorities [CPAs]) and the induced impact (direct or indirect employees who return their wages to the general economy) of CPAs, the picture becomes clearer: in total, CPAs generate $53 billion annually in economic output and $25 billion in GDP. Ports also generate significant tax revenues, with approximately $2.1 billion paid by port employers and employees, as well as port authorities themselves, to various levels of government.
Operators
Béton Provincial
Béton Provincial, a Québec family business, stands out for the diversity and exceptional quality of its products and services in Eastern Canada. Its goal is to become a leader in the Canadian concrete sector, whether through acquisitions, partnerships, or expansions of its production capacity.
- Béton Provincial played a crucial role in Québec’s energy transition in 2023, notably through its partnership with TERCIM to provide sustainable concrete to various projects such as the Champlain Bridge and the Réseau express métropolitain (REM).
- The company is committed to the construction of the battery sector in Bécancour, mobilizing a ready-for-commissioning concrete plant to reduce the sector’s environmental impact and associated CO2 emissions.
- Béton Provincial has also contributed to major projects such as the Apuiat wind farm on the North Shore and the CHU de Québec university medical centre, using innovative materials and promoting diversity by recruiting international workers.
Corporation des pilotes du Bas Saint-Laurent
The Corporation des pilotes du Bas Saint-Laurent (CPBSL) as the crucial responsibility of ensuring the safe transit of ships within electoral district No. 2 of the Laurentians region, the oldest in Canada, encompassing the section of the St. Lawrence River between Les Escoumins and the Port of Québec. It contributes significantly to propelling the region’s economic growth, while consolidating Québec City’s reputation as an essential destination for freight and passenger transportation.
- With public interest top of mind, the CPBSL ensured the safe operation of ships between Québec City and Les Escoumins. Proudly committed to maritime transport, CPBSL’s 78 licenced pilots and shareholders ensured safety on the St. Lawrence and Saguenay rivers.
- The Corporation is proud to have adopted a corporate governance model backed by a board of directors of seven active pilots.
- As of December 31, 2023, nearly 7,608 pilotage assignments were carried out by the pilots.
Corporation des pilotes du Saint-Laurent central
The Corporation des pilotes du Saint-Laurent Central (CPSLC) bbrings together pilots operating between the Québec City and Montréal ports. Responsible for guiding ships subject to pilotage obligations, pilots ensure safe and efficient navigation on the river. The pilots’ constant commitment to maritime safety contributes significantly to preserving the environment and promoting sustainable development in the region.
- 2023 marked an important milestone for the CPSLC, which celebrated its 150th anniversary.
- CPSLC’s pilots completed a total of 14,491 missions in 2023, including 6,432 in the Québec City area. Their expertise and commitment have been essential to ensuring the safety of ships, while preserving the environment and promoting sustainable development.
- The CPSLC also renewed its Portable Pilot Units (PPUs), a computer system that serves as a decision-making support for navigation in constricted waters and during port maneuvers.
Davie
Davie is Canada’s leading shipbuilder and a world leader in the construction of specialty vessels critical to the missions of a diverse clientele, including government and commercial clients. It is committed to building and maintaining Canadian vessels with an eye to safety, above all, by leveraging global expertise at the country’s largest shipyard. Davie strives to provide tailored solutions that respond to renewal and maintenance requirements throughout the operational life of the Canadian fleet.
- Davie joined Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) in April 2023, with $8.5 billion in contracts for shipbuilding programs.
- A liaison committee was created in June 2023 to facilitate exchanges on topics such as traffic, the environment, and projects under development.
- Davie acquired Helsinki Shipyard, a world leader in shipbuilding in the Arctic, in November 2023, establishing headquarters in Québec City and opening up new opportunities for exports.
Desgagnés
Desgagnés is a leading Québec group, distinguished by the excellence of its maritime and land operations. Its versatile fleet includes tankers, cargo ships, passenger and cargo carriers, as well as roll-on/roll-off ships and tugboats. The group also offers charter, ship repair, bail-out, heavy machinery and road transportation services. Its reputation as a leader in the merchant marine industry stems from its unwavering commitment to quality and efficiency.
- Desgagnés management was proud to announce the addition of another vessel to its fleet. Acquired on June 15, 2023, the vessel docked on June 29, 2023, at the Port of Québec, where it was registered under the flag of Canada. Destined to join Desgagnés’ Arctic fleet and to serve Nunavut, Nunavik and the international market, it was named Marcellin A. Desgagnés.
- The 9th Défi Kayak Desgagnés, held in August 2023, was a success, with the participation of 180 kayakers who, during their 250-kilometre crossing on the St. Lawrence River, raised more than $475,000 to support more than 1,500 children from at-risk backgrounds that threaten their holistic development.
- In 2023, Desgagnés made significant progress in marine mammal research, making 400 observations of these animals since 2015. This data was shared with the Marine Mammal Observation Network (MMON) to support research on the habits of St. Lawrence whales. In addition, 17 ships from the Desgagnés fleet recorded their underwater acoustic signature in 2023, to advance studies on the impact of noise on marine mammals.
Fednav
Fednav has made a name for itself as Canada’s largest international bulk shipping company, occupying a leading position in the industry. Its unwavering commitment to innovation and leadership in marine transportation is behind its practical and forward-thinking transportation solutions. As a leader in maritime transport in the Great Lakes and the Canadian Arctic regions, Fednav remains the world’s largest operator of ice-class laker bulk carriers.
- In 2023, Fednav welcomed the first of 10 new super-eco lakers, the most efficient in its fleet to date. These ships are 7% more fuel efficient.
- Fednav is collaborating on a dockside electrification project with the Port of Québec. The project stems from a joint mission to reduce GHGs and other air emissions.
G3
G3, a Canadian company, aims to establish a more promising path from the farm to global markets. Today, G3 is revolutionizing grain transportation with a growing network of facilities that set new standards for speed, safety, and reliability. The company puts the efficiency of its operations at the heart of its priorities, providing business opportunities to its customers across Canada and around the world.
- In 2023, G3 announced the renewal of its long-term partnership with the Port of Québec. Following a successful collaboration dating back more than 50 years, the strategic alliance was extended for another 30 years, consolidating Québec City as a major hub for agri-food exports in Eastern Canada.
Glencore
Glencore is one of the world’s leading diversified natural resources companies, distinguishing itself as a leading producer and trader of more than 60 commodities that contribute to improving the quality of everyday life. Guided by a holistic vision to significantly reduce carbon emissions, its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility lies in the responsible sourcing of raw materials.
- In 2023, Glencore continued its efforts to reduce the environmental footprint of its operations at the Port of Québec, which are certified ISO 14001 and by the Green Alliance program.
- The VISION system, an advanced technology for monitoring and optimizing unloading, was a key innovation in 2023. This initiative allows for more accurate and efficient unloading, resulting in a smaller environmental impact.
Ocean Group
As a nationally integrated marine service provider, Ocean Group is committed to maintaining its leading position on the St. Lawrence and expanding its reach internationally. Ocean Group’s reputation is based on the ingenuity of the maritime solutions it offers. The Group aspires to conduct its activities in harmony with its environment by constantly striving to adopt sustainable and innovative practices in all its activities.
- In 2023, Ocean Group began renewing its fleet of vehicles and, in doing so, prioritized the purchase of hybrid vehicles to reduce its environmental footprint and contribute to the transition to sustainable transportation. Electric charging stations have also been installed at its two sites.
- Ocean Group also launched a major fundraising campaign to modernize the respirators available in the neonatal intensive care unit at the CHU de Québec university medical centre.
- Ocean Group continued its efforts to draw attention to Indigenous realities and ensure they are taken into consideration by offering trainings led by First Nations trainers and developing recruitment tools adapted to the various nations, among others.
IMTT
IMTT stands out as the leading independent provider of bulk liquid storage solutions and logistics services in North America, ensuring safety and reliability at its terminals across Canada and the United States. Its dedication to local communities is clear, with its promotion of robust economic activity and the creation of sustainable jobs. IMTT is committed to paving the way to a sustainable future, focusing on innovation to contribute to building a cleaner world.
- In 2023, IMTT continued its transition to new renewable fuels, such as biodiesel from its customers, resulting in significant GHG emission reductions.
- In addition, the acquisition of two new locomotives aims to strengthen rail operations while improving the energy efficiency of its equipment. Due to their significantly reduced GHG emissions and fuel needs, these new locomotives represent a major step forward toward environmental sustainability and increased operational performance.
LOLA
Whether it is managing the documentation required downstream of their arrival in Canadian waters with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), coordinating pilotage requirements or managing ships’ time wharf time, LOLA meets a range of needs on behalf of ships or their charterers. Lola is the main go-between for ships, longshore workers, and the port authority, and is central to any visit by an internationally flagged vessel to ports on the St. Lawrence seaway. With a commitment to continuous improvement, the company is solidifying its foundations to support its continued growth. This growth is illustrated by significant innovations integrated into its services, allowing Lola to offer “tailor-made success” to all its customers by leveraging the most extensive network in the marine industry.
- Lola was involved in the first shipments of spodumene to the Port of Quebec, a strategic cargo and source of lithium, a key raw material.
- Lola supports the Canadian and American navies as a local agent for stopovers in Québec City and Lévis.
- Lola has a strong and direct involvement with charterers of hydrocarbon vessels at the Port of Québec.
QSL
QSL is a key player in the supply chain, playing an essential role in operations with respect to the port terminals, stowage, marine services, logistics, and transportation across North America. Its commitment to the meticulous handling of goods reflects its dedication to meeting each client’s specific needs and ensuring the well-being of the communities in which it operates.
- QSL presented its first ESG report in 2023.
- The company has also obtained ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certifications for its headquarters in Québec City and for its terminals in the Anse au Foulon and Beauport sectors.
- Robert Bellisle, President and CEO of QSL, participated in the world’s largest sustainable leadership research initiative, the 12th United Nations Global Compact-Accenture CEO Study.
Sollio Agriculture
Sollio Agriculture, the largest agri-food cooperative in Canada, has grown from its Québec roots to become an essential pillar of the economic landscape. With its dynamic network, the company is a leading economic driver in the agriculture, retail, and food sectors. Sollio is committed to contributing significantly to food security by ensuring the prosperity of farm families. This mission is embedded in a vision that ensures a sustainable future for all.
- In 2023, significant efforts were made to reorganize the company’s fertilizer supply sources following the conflict in Ukraine and sanctions on Russian products.
- Sollio Agriculture updated its GHG emissions balance in 2023 with a view to setting reduction targets in the coming year. The facilities in the Port of Québec are a strong asset to maximize the marine transportation of grain and fertilizers and to reduce GHG emissions associated with the transportation of goods.
Valero
As Québec’s leading distributor of petroleum products, Valero Energy Inc. supports 3,400 jobs and meets 70% of the province’s energy needs. Wholly owned by the Valero Energy Corporation, the company is committed to operational excellence, safety, and integrity. The company is a leader in protecting the environment and contributing to community prosperity. Valero Energy Inc. has consolidated its position through strategic investments and continues to meet Québec’s energy needs in a responsible and sustainable manner.
- In 2023, as the operator of the Jean-Gaulin refinery, Valero achieved a refining capacity of approximately 235,000 barrels per day.
- In addition, the refinery continued to provide products essential for current and future mobility. Valero has developed a diversified product range including ethanol gasoline, renewable diesel, and jet fuel. Thanks to this innovative project, Valero was able to reduce GHG emissions for the entire life cycle of its products by approximately 30%.
Cruise development
Cruise season
The 2023 cruise season, the longest in our history, was marked by 154,000 cruise passengers and 41 ships from 28 different companies, totalling 131 stopovers. The port also broke a record number of boardings and disembarkations with a total of 33. This success was crowned by the award for the best cruise destination on the Canada/New England route for 2023, presented to Québec City by the renowned magazine Porthole Cruise and Travel.
The first winter cruises
In 2023, Québec’s international cruise industry announced that it was entering a new era with the inclusion of the winter season in its offering, a first in North America. This innovative development will come to life in 2025, marking a historic turning point. An international cruise ship, led by Le Commandant Charcot, will welcome on board 200 passengers and winter adventurers, offering four 12-night itineraries, scheduled from the end of January to the beginning of March. These voyages will include several stops at member ports of the St. Lawrence Cruise Association (SLCA), including the Port of Québec. This new initiative received an enthusiastic welcome from the Port of Québec, which sees it as an opportunity to extend the cruise season beyond the fall. Québec City is undoubtedly a prime destination for cruise passengers, who now have the opportunity to discover its charms even in winter.
Holland America’s 150th Anniversary Cruise Ship
As the 2023 international cruise season was in full swing, the Port of Québec celebrated the arrival of the Holland America Line’s 150th anniversary cruise ship. The Holland America Line connects New York and Boston to Québec City as part of its Canada/New England route. It is a pioneer in cruise travel outside the traditional autumn peak season, with calls beginning in May. This year, more than 30,000 passengers disembarked in Québec City from Holland America Line ships, making it one of the Port of Québec’s main cruise partners. In addition, the Holland America Line has paved the way for other major cruise lines, which now include Québec City as a destination in their itineraries.
Partnership with the MT Lab
The Port of Québec announced a major partnership with the MT Lab in the field of open innovation. This partnership aims to propel these companies to new heights, while contributing to the development and promotion of the tourism industry in the region and beyond. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the Port’s commitment to innovation, an essential pillar of its 2035 Vision. By offering its port facilities as an innovation laboratory, the Port showcases the expertise and specialized knowledge of local companies, thus strengthening their global reach. As a hub for cruise activities, the Port of Québec generates significant tourist and economic benefits for Québec City and its surrounding areas. It is therefore natural for the Port to support and open its territory to innovative Québec companies in the tourism sector, both locally and internationally.
Wharf electrification
The Port of Québec is resolutely committed to accelerating the electrification of its infrastructure and initiating a proactive approach modernizing its berths with a view to sustainability. With this in mind, efforts are already underway to install specialized electrical terminals on three wharves, demonstrating the Port’s commitment to responsible and sustainable environmental practices. The Port has submitted its applications for financial assistance to the governments of Québec and Canada, as substantial government financial support is crucial to fully committing to the transition to sustainability.
Operations
Terminal 30 and the Ross Gaudreault terminal
Our event halls were in high demand in 2023, reflecting a year rich in celebrations and community commitments. The Salle du Quai du Cap-Blanc was the setting for 22 matrimonial unions, in addition to hosting a number of lively festive evenings during the holiday season. Terminal 30 was the site of no less than 33 events, including non-profit initiatives such as Le Souper de la Jonquille and events organized by Patro Laval and the Kiwanis Club. In addition, the Port of Québec had the honour of presenting the 16th Rendez-vous de l’habitation and a tribute to Bob Bissonnette, attracting a dedicated audience as confirmed by the sale of 1,400 tickets. Finally, the Ross Gaudreault Terminal hosted the prestigious WAQ (Web à Québec) yearly event as part of NumériQC Week, bringing together no less than 5,000 visitors.
In 2023, the port’s facilities hosted more than 285 events, demonstrating its commitment to providing a versatile and dynamic setting for all kinds of occasions.
Port of Québec Marina
The Port of Québec Marina is located in the heart of the Vieux-Port historic district, on Louise Basin. A picturesque spot steps away from the city, it is the perfect place for a stopover with family and friends. It boasts modern facilities, a full range of services and, above all, a warm welcome from our staff for an unforgettable stay.
In 2023, with a home port welcoming 310 loyal members, the Port of Québec Marina was the scene of the stopover of 760 visitor boats, each enjoying a stay varying from a few nights to a few weeks. For an enhanced experience, the season was interspersed with numerous activities for boaters’ enjoyment, including thematic evenings, nautical events, training sessions, sailing competitions, presentations, and many more.
Port of Québec Nordik Village
The Port of Québec Nordik Village offers residents and visitors alike ice fishing activities and numerous winter activities. It is administered by the organization of the same name, whose mandate is to support this recreational tourism site at the Port of Québec through the organization of events and activities.
During the 2023 season, more than 8,000 fishermen flocked to Louise Basin, where a whopping 12,000 freshly stocked trout awaited them. The Port of Québec’s Nordik Village was also honoured to host Ukraine’s pee-wee hockey team, along with more than 50 other teams from around the world. In addition, five Latino shows ignited the Nordik Village stage, thrilling its crowd in the gazebo. For the entertainment of all ages, themed weekends were thoughtfully planned. These themes included the traditional sugar shack, an exploration of Inuit culture, educational workshops on fishing, logger competitions, magic shows, and other performances.
Port of Québec Oasis
The Port of Québec Oasis is a recreational tourism site at the Port de Québec that opened on July 1, 2022. The first harbour bath in North America, the project evolved out of suggestions from citizens. This initiative is the result of a collaborative effort between the Port of Québec, the Société des Gens de Baignade, and the non-profit organization Port de Québec Nordik Village which is behind its operations.
During the 2023 summer season, the Port of Québec Oasis drew nearly 1,000 visitors every day. In addition to enjoying the swimming spot, visitors relaxed on a terrace offering a breathtaking view of the marina in specially designed areas. Following suggestions from residents, the Port has made significant improvements, such as the installation of push-off walls, the addition of floating docks around the swimming area, and the installation of locked changing rooms. The feedback collected during the satisfaction survey conducted in 2023 using the Je participate platform revealed a remarkable satisfaction rate of 97%, demonstrating the quality and appreciation of the services offered at the Port of Québec Oasis.
Port of Québec Cale
La Cale du Port de Québec is a recreational tourism site surrounded by a tropical setting of palm trees and pink flamingos, where there is something for everyone to sit back and relax along the shore of the magnificent St. Lawrence River.
La Cale du Port de Québec officially opened in 2023. La Cale is an exceptional space offering a magnificent view of the St. Lawrence River, in addition to being nestled in one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods of Old Québec. Despite a summer marked by abundant rainfall, the terrace and water pools at La Cale du Port de Québec were a resounding success on sunny days, attracting a considerable number of visitors, especially on weekends, for an impressive total of 72,000 people. The results of the 2023 satisfaction survey, conducted on the Je participe platform, revealed an exceptional satisfaction rate of 96%, a sign that the site is much loved by an appreciative clientele.
Port of Québec Agora
The Agora is a recreational tourism site at the Port of Québec open from May to September. The Port brings music, sporting and cultural events as well as comedy shows to the stage at this festive gathering place. The non-profit organization L’Incubateur de musique francophone (IMF) operates the Agora site at the Port, in collaboration with the Association des gens d’affaires du Vieux-Port de Québec (AGAVP).
In 2023, the Port of Québec Agora hosted no less than 21 shows, to the delight of more than 76,849 spectators. This series of events injected a renewed sense of dynamism into the neighbourhood, attracting significant traffic to the surrounding shops and restaurants. This cultural and economic vitality confirms the role played by the Port of Québec Agora as a driver of urban life and local shows that bring the entire community together.
Beauport Bay
Beauport Bay is a recreational tourism site at the Port of Québec. Nestled along the St. Lawrence River, it meets a diverse range of interests, including a sandy beach, water sports, hiking trails and bike paths. Operated by Gestev, Beauport Bay embodies the spirit of community and the outdoors that characterizes the Québec City region.< /p>
Beauport Bay’s 2023 summer season spanned a 156-day period, starting on May 13th and ending on October 15th. However, as early as April 15th, Beauport Bay began a partial opening before closing its operations to the public on November 12th. In the off-season, only water and land safety facilities were accessible to water sports enthusiasts. The swimming season ran from June 22nd to September 4th, or 75 days. Since the 2023 season was certainly not the warmest or sunniest, breaking precipitation records, swimming was officially opened 49 days out of 75, or 65% of the total season.
Infrastructure
2023 was a remarkable year in terms of infrastructure, with nearly $18 million invested in our assets, of which $8 million was funded through grants. The Port of Québec continued to make progress on several fronts and launched new initiatives to optimize the level of service provided by its assets. In addition, the Port carried out repairs as required, ensuring the continued operation of facilities and infrastructure.
The year was also marked by the development of several projects with a view to their realization in 2024. In addition, significant work has been undertaken to study the feasibility of wharf electrification and numerous discussions have been initiated with stakeholders and key industry players on the subject.
The Port’s commitment to the proactive management of its assets is demonstrated by rigorous monitoring, underpinned by expert appraisals and meticulous surveys. This process ensures sound and efficient management of resources. In parallel, the Port has undertaken several initiatives to enrich its asset database, in addition to its ongoing work dedicated to maintaining and improving its infrastructure. 2023 saw the selection and validation of a project management tool, which is scheduled to be implemented in 2024. This approach demonstrates the Port of Québec’s constant desire to optimize its practices, promote efficiency, and ensure exemplary governance.
Recent accomplishments, some of which are ongoing, include:
- Extension of the ISPS security perimeter in the Estuary sector to enhance the security of facilities;
- Rehabilitation of a critical section of wharf 20 to ensure its sustainability and optimal functionality;
- Development of the area behind the wharves at the junction of wharves 21 and 22 to improve operational efficiency and safety;
- Rehabilitation of portions of wharves 29 and 30 and development of the area behind wharf 29 to optimize space usage;
- Repair and scouring protection work at wharf 52 to ensure structural stability;
- Repair of the cross-piece attachments at wharf 19 to maintain the integrity of the port facilities;
- Reconstruction of the upper capped walls at Buteau wharves 2 and 3 (interior of Louise Basin) to ensure their safety and integrity;
- Construction of a new road infrastructure and installation of adequate lighting on the Rue du Yacht-Club de Québec to improve traffic and safety;
- Sidewalk rehabilitation and lighting upgrades on a portion of Rue Dalhousie to improve pedestrian comfort and urban aesthetics;
- Repair of the lookout envelope for building maintenance and to ensure the proper functioning of equipment;
- Replacement of the Beauport gatehouse;
- Repair of wharf 108 and construction of a work slab in the Anse au Foulon sector to maintain its structural integrity and improve worker safety;
- Optimization of terminal spaces at wharves 104 and 105 and its electrical network for a more efficient use of the terminal;
- Rehabilitation of the surface of the wharf 103 to ensure its sustainability and to maintain safety during operations.
Innovation
The strategic plan adopted last year made it clear that the Port of Québec aims to invest in innovation in a structured way. This ambition was aimed at supporting the economic development of start-ups and enabling new technologies to gain worldwide recognition. Over the past year, the Port has been exploring the innovation network, identifying strategic partners, building linkages with the ecosystem, and engaging with various companies to develop a long-term action plan.
Established in collaboration with multiple players in the innovation ecosystem, this approach helped define the elements to which the Port of Québec could contribute and to optimize its impact. In this respect, the Port aims to put its infrastructure, its network of contacts, its challenges and its opportunities at the service of innovation.
To realize this vision, in 2023, the Port of Québec worked on its “Le Phare” initiative, which will be launched in early 2024. The initiative is neither a place nor a structure, but rather a mobilization of the ecosystem around a common goal of innovation. This initiative aims to publicly affirm that the Port of Québec is a partner of choice to support and promote entrepreneurship and innovation. Depending on needs and situations, the Port may serve as a tester of new technologies, a showcase for new technologies, a partner in research and development (R&D) activities or university research, or even a first client. The Port’s involvement makes it possible to best match the needs and requirements of the market in order to maximize the chances that innovation will succeed in delivering solutions that meet the complex challenges of the industry. In all cases, the Port aims to be an actor engaged in the launch of innovative initiatives.
The ultimate goal of innovation is to solve challenges that are not easily solved by the traditional approach of seeking a specific solution to an identified problem using the tender model. In these complex cases, the Port of Québec will set out its challenges to solicit the best solutions, which sometimes require a specific new development, the integration of a new technology or the adaptation of an existing solution to the local context. These increasingly complex challenges, for which there is often no single solution, require a set of innovative solutions that must be discovered, invented, tested, and implemented.
The first step following the launch of Le Phare will be to communicate the foundations of an innovation model specific to the Port of Québec by establishing and testing the concept of the laboratory on the specific needs of the maritime and port sectors. This will refine the architecture, governance and project selection process, while identifying success measures to prioritize and implement.
The development of the innovation ecosystem is now an essential pillar of the Port of Québec’s business development. This strategic vision is based on the belief that the various initiatives put in place by the organization in 2023 will play a decisive role in the economy by leveraging the Port’s strategic position, by facilitating access to the innovation ecosystem, and by cultivating strong partnerships within this ecosystem. The Port of Québec aims to stimulate the creation of synergies with sectors outside those traditionally served by its primary mission foster close collaboration with the world of education, research and technology, bringing them closer to the maritime domain thanks to the joint action of the Port of Québec and its partners.
Home > About the port > Annual reviews > Port Activities