OSHAWA, ONTARIO, CANADA — The Port of Oshawa Grain Export Terminal, which is currently undergoing an expansion and modernization effort, recently welcomed its first test shipments.

The C$35 million ($25.4 million) expansion and modernization project is being led by Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority (HOPA Ports) and is backed by a C$14 million contribution form the government of Canada’s National Trade Corridors Fund.

As part of the expansion, the terminal’s storage capacity has been increased to 20,000 tonnes and features a vessel loading rate of up to 12,000 tonnes per day. In addition, a new dual truck unloading structure capable of receiving 700 tonnes per hour has been added. The dual truck unloading structure will “streamline deliveries and minimize delays,” HOPA Ports said.

The upgrades at the terminal also include weather protection as well as a modern dust control system to meet high environmental standards.

“Making this facility work for regional farmers is our priority; we’ve invested in quality infrastructure, improving the terminal’s efficiency from the front gate right onto the vessel,” said Ian Hamilton, president and chief executive officer of HOPA Ports. “We’re thrilled that the Port of Oshawa is contributing to the resiliency and reliability of Canadian agricultural supply chains.”

Gino Becerra, vice president, Ontario, QSL, added, “QSL is proud to be part of this effort to enhance the potential of the Port of Oshawa. We are looking forward to seeing more grain exported through this facility every year.”

The terminal is a joint venture between QSL and HOPA Ports. Parrish & Heimbecker is in charge of managing the first test shipments of soybeans, which began in September and will continue through the end of October. HOPA Ports said the soybeans will be used to settle the new bin and fill the existing silo, with plans to load an ocean-going vessel this fall.