VANCOUVER — The Lower Mainland’s three gateway port authorities have ratified a report recommending each port facility merges into a single Canada Port Authority.

The boards of the Vancouver, North Fraser, and Fraser River port authorities commissioned the report by InterVISTAS Consulting Ltd.

The group was tasked with finding ways for the Lower Mainland ports to explore opportunities that will allow them to become even more globally competitive and capture a larger share of growing Pacific trade volumes.

After it was approved, the report was subsequently forwarded to the Federal Minister of Transport Lawrence Cannon for his review and action.

“The report confirms that integration of port activities in the Lower Mainland can enhance Canada’s competitiveness in the global trade environment, and is the most effective means of optimizing port planning, development and marketing,” said Vancouver Port Authority Chair George Adams.