Posted on August 12, 2026
Quebec City, August 10, 2026 – The Quebec Port Authority acknowledges the decision rendered today by the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada regarding the designation application for the container terminal project in the Beauport sector, submitted by QSLThis link will open in a new window.
Following its analysis, the Agency confirms that the Quebec Port Authority is the competent authority to oversee the environmental assessment in accordance with the provisions of the Impact Assessment Act. In this regard, the Impact Assessment and Mitigation Process (IAMP) will determine the extent of the environmental impacts and, consequently, the feasibility of the project and the specific conditions that will be associated with it.
In the coming weeks, the Quebec Port Authority will specify the parameters of this process, including the timeline and the procedures for public and stakeholder participation. The Port Authority intends to make information available clearly and accessibly throughout the process, notably on the website jeparticipe.portquebec.ca.
A rigorous, independent and transparent process
Like the 16 other Canadian port authorities established under the Canada Marine Act, the Quebec Port Authority acts as a federal authority under the Impact Assessment Act. As such, it is responsible for ensuring that projects carried out within its territory do not cause significant adverse environmental effects.
To achieve this, the PEAI provides for an assessment of environmental effects by an independent firm mandated by the promoter, as well as an independent review by a second external firm selected by the Port Authority.
A project that remains to be evaluated
The Quebec Port Authority reiterates that this decision does not constitute authorization of the project. Once the project is officially submitted by the proponent, they will have to follow all the steps outlined in the PEAI before a decision can be made.
As provided for in the Impact Assessment Act, a project could only proceed if it is demonstrated that it is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.
The Port Authority will continue its discussions with stakeholders and will continue to inform and involve the public throughout the various stages of the matter.
About the Port of Quebec
Located in the heart of the Great Lakes market and benefiting from a water depth of 15 meters, the Port of Quebec allows Canadian companies to maximize their economies of scale for their imports and exports.
Interconnected with over 40 countries, it handles more than 26 million tonnes of cargo annually, representing a commercial value of over $15 billion, and supports nearly 12,000 jobs nationwide. It ranks 4th among the 17 Canadian port authorities in terms of revenue and is recognized as a leader in St. Lawrence River cruises.
The Port of Quebec also distinguishes itself through its commitment to the community and is proud to make 26% of its territory accessible to the public, thanks to exceptional sites such as the Agora, L’Oasis, La Cale and Baie de Beauport.
