Halifax first Port in Canada to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Panama Canal Authority

September 18, 2012 - The Halifax Port Authority has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Panama Canal Authority. The Port of Halifax is the first port in Canada to sign an MOU with the Panama Canal Authority.

The purpose of the Memorandum of Understanding is to identify business opportunities, increase awareness of the ports, exchange information, and undertake joint marketing initiatives.

“Asian cargo is growing over the Port of Halifax and with the Panama Canal expansion nearing completion, large ships will soon have another route option available to and from North America and the Port of Halifax,” said Karen Oldfield, President & CEO, Halifax Port Authority. “With Halifax’s transit time advantages for our Asian target markets, it makes sense for us to establish a strategic partnership with the Panama Canal Authority and this MOU will be mutually beneficial for both ports.”

“The Memorandum of Understanding with the Halifax Port Authority reinforces the importance of the ‘All-Water Route’ through the Panama Canal,” said Panama Canal Authority (ACP) Administrator Jorge Quijano. “With the current economic climate, it has never been more important to provide optimal customer service, and this agreement will enable us to fully cooperate and work together for continued trade between Asia and the East Coast of Canada.”