An independent economic impact study conducted by Deetken Insight has confirmed that the Port of Nanaimo generated CA$ 2.4 billion in economic output in 2025, establishing the port as a significant economic driver for Canada, British Columbia and Vancouver Island.
The assessment used recognised Statistics Canada data and economic modelling to evaluate the impacts of the port and its broader port community.
The study found that port-connected activities supported 8,073 jobs, generated CA$ 1.1 billion in GDP, contributed CA$ 557 million in wages and produced approximately CA$ 115 million in tax revenues for federal, provincial and municipal governments.
The findings from the Port of Nanaimo’s 2025 economic impact study reveal significant growth since the previous assessment in 2014. After adjusting for inflation, total economic output and GDP each increased by approximately 50 percent, with gains recorded across all key indicators including employment and wages.
In 2025, approximately CA$ 7 million was invested in capital projects on port lands. Looking ahead, the Nanaimo Port Authority is advancing the expansion of Duke Point Terminal in partnership with DP World, a project designed to increase container and short-sea shipping capacity and improve operational efficiency.
The expansion involves approximately CA$ 133 million in planned investment through 2028 and is estimated to generate CA$ 232 million in economic output, CA$ 108 million in GDP, 734 jobs and CA$ 54 million in labour income.
Ian Marr, President and CEO of the Nanaimo Port Authority, described the findings as confirming what partners, tenants and the community observe daily, characterising the port as more than a freight handling facility and highlighting its role as a connector of people, businesses and opportunity that strengthens Vancouver Island’s access to domestic and international markets while contributing to a stronger regional economy.
