QSA's Week in Freight & Ports (#29, 2025)
CBSA terminates Turkish steel dumping probe; major cocaine interdiction at Windsor border; Minister Sidhu tours B.C. maritime hubs; U.S.–Japan strike shipbuilding, energy, trade pact; U.S. Coast Guard reviews vessel safety regulations.

Good morning! This is Queen Street Analytics' weekly roundup of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning trucking, rail, and shipping, ports, cargo terminals, international and interprovincial logistics. Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.
Want to track the upstream and downstream forces affecting Freight & Ports? Don’t miss this week’s updates in Aviation and Oil & Gas.
Dates: 2025-07-20 to 2025-07-26
📋 In This Week's Newsletter
• 🇨🇦 Canadian Federal GR News
• 🇺🇸 US Federal GR News
• 🗺️ Canadian Provincial GR News
• 📚 What We're Reading This Week
Canadian Federal GR News
CBSA Terminates Dumping Investigation into Turkish Corrosion-Resistant Steel Sheet Imports
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) ended its dumping investigation for corrosion-resistant steel sheet imports from Türkiye, concluding that goods from Borçelik Çelik Sanayi Ticaret were not dumped. The Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) subsequently terminated its parallel inquiry, removing potential anti-dumping tariffs and refunding any provisional duties or security posted since initiation. The investigation had been triggered under the Special Import Measures Act (SIMA) and covered a broad range of tariff codes related to corrosion-resistant steel sheet (as listed in the Gazette, Part I, Volume 159, Number 30). Imports of these materials will no longer be subject to provisional anti-dumping duties, and importers can expect release of previously secured funds in accordance with the CBSA's Statement of Reasons, set to be published within 15 days. The CITT’s role as an independent body ensures transparency in such trade investigations.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca, Gazette, Part I: www.gazette.gc.ca

Structural Tubing Import Order Against Korea and Türkiye Continued
The Canadian International Trade Tribunal has continued, without amendment, its order on structural tubing imported from the Republic of Korea and Türkiye. Pursuant to paragraph 76.03(12)(b) of the Special Import Measures Act, this decision retains the existing trade remedies and associated compliance requirements for covered goods, as defined in the Tribunal's order of July 16, 2025. The full description of goods and order details are outlined in official notices.
Sources: Gazette, Part I: www.gazette.gc.ca
CBSA Intercepts $23.4 Million Worth of Cocaine at Ambassador Bridge
Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers seized 187.5 kg of suspected cocaine valued at $23.4 million at the Ambassador Bridge on May 23, 2025. The narcotics were hidden in a commercial truck coming from the United States and were discovered during a secondary inspection by CBSA officers. The driver, 55-year-old Kambiz Karandish of Richmond Hill, Ontario, was arrested and transferred to RCMP custody, facing charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act for importation and possession for the purpose of trafficking. Investigations are ongoing, with law enforcement emphasizing continued vigilance at commercial border crossings.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
CBSA Reports Cannabis Export Smuggling Cases at Calgary International Airport and Commercial Operations
Over the past year, CBSA officers in Calgary intercepted more than 160 kg of illicit cannabis, mostly destined for export markets such as the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Individual seizures ranged from 1 to 48 kg, found concealed in luggage, bath towels, and commercial shipments. Arrests of Canadian citizens and foreign travellers have been made, including an interception involving 12.29 kg from a Canadian citizen and 17.5 kg from a traveller from Hong Kong. The street value of the seized cannabis exceeds $1.2 million. Offences involve penalties under the Customs Act and Cannabis Act, with penalties up to 14 years’ imprisonment.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Minister Sidhu Reviews Trade and Maritime Operations in British Columbia
Minister of International Trade Maninder Sidhu met with B.C. officials and business leaders in a multi-day visit from July 17–21. Engagements included a tour of the Port of Vancouver, discussions with the Vancouver International Airport CEO on cargo capacity, and meetings with provincial Minister Ravi Kahlon regarding supply chain and energy sector collaboration. The minister visited OSI Maritime Systems Ltd. to review export challenges unique to Canadian defence firms, and toured LNG Canada’s Kitimat facility to observe energy exports to Asian markets. Other meetings involved the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce and local manufacturers. The Team Canada Trade Missions and Trade Commissioner Service were presented as critical support structures for Canadian exporters.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
HMCS Ville de Québec Completes Forward Rearmament in Australia During Joint Exercises
His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ville de Québec successfully completed a forward rearmament of Block II Harpoon Missiles in Darwin, Australia during Exercise TALISMAN SABRE 25. In partnership with the Australian Defence Force, the operation followed 2024’s inaugural rearmament of HMCS Vancouver in Broome, marking continued development of Canadian logistical support for Indo-Pacific naval deployments. The live-fire exercise included ground target engagement with new missile systems, representing a logistical evolution for Royal Canadian Navy operations outside North America.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Statistics Canada Releases May 2025 Railway Carloadings Data
Statistics Canada reported that Canadian railways transported 32.7 million tonnes of cargo in May 2025, a 0.1% increase from the previous year. The rise was driven by higher volumes of wheat, iron ores, and potash shipments. These statistics point to steadiness in rail freight volumes, with commodity-specific increases contributing to overall totals.
Sources: Open Government Data Set: www.statcan.gc.ca
Monthly Energy Transportation and Storage Survey Data Published for May 2025
Updated data on the transportation and storage of crude oil and other liquid petroleum products for May 2025 have been released by Statistics Canada. The survey covers monthly movements and storage holdings across Canada, providing insights into liquid energy flows for pipeline and storage operators.
Sources: Open Government Data Set: www.statcan.gc.ca
US Federal GR News
White House Announces $550 Billion U.S.–Japan Trade and Investment Agreement
President Donald Trump announced a new U.S.–Japan strategic agreement, featuring a $550 billion commitment from Japanese investors to U.S. industries, with 90% profit retention for American entities. The agreement targets energy, semiconductors, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, and shipbuilding, and establishes a 15% tariff on Japanese imports. U.S. market access in agriculture, manufacturing, aerospace, and autos will also expand under this plan, which eliminates longstanding restrictions and increases Japanese purchases of U.S. goods. The administration described this as a realignment prioritizing U.S. industrial and labor interests, promising expanded opportunity in key sectors.
Sources: White House Announcements: www.whitehouse.gov
U.S. Coast Guard Extends Public Review on Hazardous Liquid Bulk Shipping Recordkeeping
The U.S. Coast Guard has opened public comment on extending the approval for information collection related to ships carrying bulk hazardous liquids. The process, under OMB Control Number 1625-0094, ensures the ongoing collection of records and certificates – including CG-4602B (Cargo Record Book) and Certificates of Fitness – from chemical tank vessel owners and operators. The estimated annual burden has increased to 10,955 hours due to more respondents. Feedback is requested by August 22, 2025, regarding the utility and burden of these regulatory requirements, which are authorized by 46 U.S.C. 3703 and support environmental protection and safety standards.
Sources: U.S. Federal Announcements: www.federalregister.gov
Federal Maritime Commission Files King Ocean/Seaboard St. Maarten Space Charter Amendment
The Federal Maritime Commission has filed an amendment to the King Ocean/Seaboard St. Maarten Space Charter Agreement, reducing the amount of space chartered and updating corporate addresses. The agreement, governed under the Shipping Act of 1984, is open for public comment within 12 days of Federal Register publication. Parties interested in operational agreements for U.S.–Caribbean routes are advised to review the amendment text through the Commission’s website.
Sources: U.S. Federal Announcements: www.federalregister.gov
Postal Regulatory Commission Reviews Competitive Shipping Service Agreements
The U.S. Postal Service filed several requests with the Postal Regulatory Commission to add negotiated service agreements for Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, and USPS Ground Advantage to the Competitive Products List. Recent dockets (PME-PM-GA 1391, PM 908, PM 909 among others) represent ongoing efforts to expand tailored shipping options for business customers. Documents related to these filings are accessible via prc.gov.
Sources: U.S. Federal Announcements: www.federalregister.gov
U.S. Coast Guard Seeks Comments on Expanded Vessel Compliance Labeling
The Coast Guard has issued a notice for public comment on the continuation of labeling requirements for recreational boats, uninspected commercial vessels, and selected marine equipment. Identified with OMB Control Number 1625-0056, the regulations include Hull Identification Numbers, Maximum Capacities Labels, and Certified Navigation Light Labels. The estimated annual reporting burden has increased to 198,247 hours due to higher respondent numbers. Stakeholders are invited to provide input on the necessity, accuracy, and burden of these compliance measures before September 22, 2025.
Sources: U.S. Federal Announcements: www.federalregister.gov
Canadian Provincial GR News
Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Arctic Gateway Group Sign Port of Churchill Trade Corridor Agreement
Premiers of Saskatchewan and Manitoba, along with the Arctic Gateway Group, entered into an MOU to develop the northern trade corridor through the Port of Churchill, aiming for expanded infrastructure and increased access to international markets.
Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.saskatchewan.ca
Saskatchewan and Prince Edward Island Target Reduction of Interprovincial Trade Barriers
Saskatchewan and PEI signed an MOU to facilitate mutual recognition of regulations and boost direct-to-consumer alcohol sales, supporting improved trade and labor mobility between the provinces.
Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.saskatchewan.ca
Saskatchewan, Manitoba Advance Interprovincial Trade with New MOU
A new agreement between Saskatchewan and Manitoba covers labor mobility, mutual recognition of regulatory standards, and frameworks for direct-to-consumer alcohol sales, building on previous collaboration through the New West Partnership Trade Agreement.
Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.saskatchewan.ca
Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Alberta Launch Pipeline and Critical Minerals Export Initiative
Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Alberta announced a collaborative initiative focusing on oil, gas, and mineral export infrastructure, outlining coordination for pipelines, rail corridors, and processing hubs.
Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.saskatchewan.ca
Saskatchewan Reports 6.4% Year-over-Year Retail Trade Growth in May 2025
Statistics Canada data show Saskatchewan's retail trade increased 6.4% in May 2025 over the same month last year, reaching $2.3 billion in sales.
Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.saskatchewan.ca
What We're Reading This Week
- The Port of Churchill in Manitoba is ready for its global shipping moment, CEO says: The Port of Churchill positions itself as a hub for global freight exports.
- Delta terminal upgrades complete, expanding capacity for auto trade at the Port of Vancouver: The Port of Vancouver announces expanded terminal operations for automotive shipments.
- Shipbuilding, aerospace to be priorities in federal strategy to transform defence sector, Joly says: Federal plans target shipbuilding and aerospace in defence sector strategy.
- Tariffs Bite, Trucks Pay: Inside GM’s (GM) $1.1B Hit and ICE-Focused Pivot: New tariffs impact automaker supply chains and operational strategies.
- Sri Lankan court orders owners of container ship to pay US$1 billion in marine pollution compensation: Container ship owners fined for environmental damages following a major spill.
- TotalEnergies and CMA CGM to Launch LNG Bunkering Logistics Joint Venture to Accelerate Maritime Decarbonization: LNG bunkering joint venture announced in support of maritime fuel transition.
- From Benjamin Franklin to Pony Express to anthrax: How the US Postal Service shaped a nation: Historical overview of how mail logistics have evolved in the United States.