Ratings agency says it expects operator to maintain 'exceptionally strong competitive position.'

China, South Korea and India become key markets during 2015.

Drought has reduced country's normal crop production.

The canal has undergone a massive $5.25 billion expansion that allows for the transit of ships with significantly more capacity than before.

The port is nation’s only deep sea Arctic port and ships an average of 514,000 tonnes of grain per year.

Country exported a combined 34 million tonnes of wheat and corn in 2015-16.

Facility has output capacity of 1,600 tonnes per hour.

The expanded canal will reduce grain transportation costs.

Wheat exports expected to soar due to the elimination of export taxes.

The mission focused on benefits of science-based trade, market access for Canadian agri-food products.