Why Minerals are Critical for the Port of Vancouver USA – and the American Economy

In recent years, domestic political shifts and international events have placed both pressure and scrutiny on global supply chains. Yet even amid these strong forces, global trade will remain as a basic reality and vital part of the American economy. Some parts of the world naturally possess certain commodities, while others don’t: hence the need for trade. For our team at the Port of Vancouver USA as well as our partners, this knowledge goes without saying. But we’re also laser-focused on ensuring that our business strategy is attuned to the evolving demands of markets and prepared for long-term success in the global economy.?

That’s why the port prizes its handling of various mineral commodities. While often unseen, these critical minerals support regional economic prosperity along with sustainability. And after passing through our port, they move through their respective value chains, ultimately making their appearance in everyday life.?

Why minerals??

When people think about ports, minerals might not be the first commodity that comes to mind. Yet at the Port of Vancouver USA, they are a huge part of what we do. Minerals are one of the pillars of our overall strategy because they are central to a secure supply chain, and they also bring in significant trade volumes and contribute to jobs and regional economic growth. The port’s bulk capabilities enable us to handle diverse mineral cargos, and these commodities not only boost our local economy but also strengthen the nation’s position in global trade.??

That’s why at the Port of Vancouver USA, we see mineral handling as both a business operation and a responsibility. And as global supply chains for minerals become even more critical in everything from renewable energy to agriculture, we’re positioning ourselves to take advantage of new opportunities with several key commodities.?

Copper concentrate: A conduit for modern industry??

Let’s take copper concentrate as an example. It’s one of the port's major mineral commodities for a reason – the mineral is a lifeline for industries powering the modern world. Without it, many of the innovations driving a sustainable future wouldn’t exist.??

At the port, we handle about 205,000 tons of copper concentrate annually, making us one of the few West Coast ports equipped for this vital commodity. The process begins when copper is mined and processed into concentrate, which is then transported to our facilities before being shipped worldwide. Once it reaches its destination, the concentrate is smelted and refined into highly conductive metallic copper that’s used in infrastructure, construction, wind energy, solar panels, electric vehicles and more.??

Here’s what also sets our port apart: we’re never content with “business as usual.” We’re constantly exploring and implementing smarter, more sustainable shipping solutions to stay ahead of industry demands and better safeguard our environment. That’s why we’ve partnered with Vancouver Bulk Terminal to transition to a “rotainer” system – a cutting-edge way to handle copper concentrate.??

With the rotainer system, the concentrate stays sealed in containers throughout its journey to the port, where they are stacked like a typical container yard. The great thing about this is it removes the need for a warehouse. When it’s time to load the concentrate onto a ship, a crane picks up each container, carries it to the vessel, and rotates it to deposit the concentrate directly into the ship’s hold. This step protects against any potential fugitive dust. The rotainer system, set to be rolled out soon, is an exciting innovation that shows how our port is a standard-setter for environmentally conscious shipping practices.??

Soda ash: Powering sustainability and everyday life?

While soda ash might not be familiar to those outside the industry, you’ve probably interacted with it today without realizing it. This versatile mineral is used in products like glass, packaging, batteries for electric vehicles and solar panels. It’s a key ingredient in the green technologies that are shaping our future.??

The port is preparing to become a leading West Coast gateway for soda ash exports, thanks to a partnership with 索尔维 , a global leader in this market. Together, we’re redeveloping Terminal 2, Berth 7 into a state-of-the-art facility specifically designed to handle soda ash. This includes enclosed conveyor systems and advanced ship loaders capable of faster, higher-volume loading. These updates align the port’s prioritization of environmental stewardship with Solvay’s commitment to green innovation.?

We’re happy to announce that demos of this new technology will begin in March 2025, with plans to have our new facility up and running by 2026.??

Potash: Supporting global food security?

Last but not least, there's potash, another mineral we’re focused on exporting. It’s one of the most important minerals in agriculture. Used as a fertilizer, potash ensures higher crop yields and better nutrition – critical factors in feeding communities around the globe.?

Much of the potash handled at the port originates in Saskatchewan, Canada, one of the world’s largest producers of potash. With the second-largest producers being Russia and Belarus, North America’s potash production has become even more critical.???

Our Terminal 5 has been purposefully developed to handle potash shipments at scale. With direct rail access, abundant land, permits in place and three deepwater berths, the terminal is primed to handle this essential commodity. The port’s strategic location in the Pacific Northwest also enables direct access to global markets like Asia, further enhancing the port’s – and America’s – role in connecting the global food chain.??

Ready for tomorrow’s shipping needs?

As markets and policies change, companies need a smart, reliable partner for their shipping. From developing innovative methods to move copper concentrate, to facilitating renewable energy with soda ash and the world’s food supply with potash, the Port of Vancouver USA is ready to do business now and in the years ahead.?

Interested in learning more? Message me on LinkedIn or send me an email at [email protected] to discuss how we can help support your shipping needs.??

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