In an unstable geopolitical context and amid a reconfiguration of global supply chains, Canada must review its trade priorities and strengthen its economic security. To achieve this, one of the major levers is the development of its trade corridors. In the east of the country, the St. Lawrence-Great Lakes corridor (SLGL), which encompasses Quebec and Ontario, is an essential strategic gateway, as international diversification will rely heavily on maritime transport and the key role of ports.

To fully exploit this potential, it is essential to adopt an integrated vision of the corridor and to understand both the obstacles to its competitiveness and the strengths and opportunities on which it can build.

In this regard, data science can support this approach by identifying priority investments in multimodal transportation and digital infrastructure and shedding light on issues that hinder competitiveness. It also makes it possible to target sectors where Canada has real comparative advantages, such as critical and strategic minerals.

This approach will also require structured governance: defining common indicators, identifying leaders, and establishing coordination mechanisms. The goal is clear: to foster a true corridor culture to strengthen the resilience and performance of the SLGL region.

To address these questions, we invite you to the 4th Annual GVCdtLab Conference on March 26, 2026, at CIRANO.

This day will consist of panels and conferences will bring together public decision-makers, researchers, and industry experts. The GVCdtLab's digital twin tools will help identify concrete and sustainable solutions to make the SLGL corridor a major asset in serving Canada's strategic geopolitical and commercial priorities.

Limited seating available – The event will be held in French and English.

For more information, contact Molivann Panot (molivann.panot@cirano.qc.ca)

With the support of Transport Canada through the National Trade Corridors Fund