SEPT-ÎLES, January 18, 2016 – The volume of cargo handled by the Port of Sept-Îles in 2015 dropped 4.6% to 22.7 million metric tons, compared to 23.8 million tons in the previous year. The slight decrease, due mainly to the closure of Cliffs Natural Resources in Pointe-Noire, was almost completely offset by the increase in shipments by Rio Tinto IOC, which rose by 24% to 17.8 million tons, and those of Tata Steel Minerals Canada, at 2.3 million tons. Tata Steel is now a major shipper, accounting for 10% of the port’s annual volume.
YEAR IN REVIEW
2015 was marked by the arrival in February of two gigantic shiploaders at the multi-user dock. They captured the attention of the entire maritime community when they were featured on Discovery Channel’s Mighty Ships show. Installation of the shiploaders was completed in late October and the multi-user dock is now ready to receive its first ore carrier as soon as dock users get connected.
Another important event was the opening in August of the Hermel exhibition site in the Port’s Marina building. The Hermel’s new home was renovated to create a space for showcasing this remarkable transatlantic watercraft. More than 4,000 people visited the exhibit during the summer.
The Port was active in the community throughout the year, contributing to nearly 60 of the region’s organizations under its donations and funding policy. Support included major sponsorship for Vieux-Quai en Fête, funding for the 5 à Huîtres Maritime event on behalf of the Élyme des sables palliative care centre, and the donation of 100 turkeys to the Grande guignolée des médias food drive. These are only a few examples of the financial engagement of the Port of Sept-Îles and the involvement of its entire team in organizing and supporting these important events.
“The delivery this year of a world class facility such as the multi-user dock occurred at a time when such assets can make all the difference in a bearish iron market. The use of larger vessels such as the Chinamax ships can reduce transportation costs by 30% to 40% and enable shippers to remain competitive in an oversupplied global market,” explained Pierre D. Gagnon, president and CEO of the Port of Sept-Îles.
ABOUT THE PORT OF SEPT-ÎLES
Boasting diverse, state-of-the-art facilities, the Port of Sept-Îles is one of North America’s biggest ore-handling ports, with an annual volume of close to 25 million tons. The port facilities at Sept-Îles play a vital and strategic role in the economy of Eastern Canada. Annual economic impacts are estimated at nearly $1 billion and almost 4,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Source:
Patsy Keays
Director, Corporate Affairs
Port of Sept-Îles
418 961-1235