Unleashing onto world markets
The Port of Vancouver USA was alive with excitement on Tuesday. Key players from Solvay, Vancouver Bulk Terminal (VBT), and the Port gathered to start building a new soda ash export hub.
The groundbreaking event included representatives from the port, Solvay, and VBT, as well as local and federal government officials, union members, port staff, and the Honorary Consul for Belgium for the northwest United States. This project is set to establish the Washington port as a major conduit for the export of Soda Ash globally.
The partnership will change Terminal 2 into a large export facility. The facility will be able to ship over 3 million tons of soda ash each year.
The partnership brings together Solvay, a major player in the soda ash market. It also includes VBT, which specializes in efficiently handling bulk cargo. Lastly, the Port of Vancouver USA is part of this group, serving as a key gateway on the West Coast.
Soda ash is vital to many essential products worldwide. It plays a key role in the manufacturing of glass used for buildings, solar panels, containers, and vehicles. It is also vital for the production of lithium used in EV batteries and other electronics, and it is a fundamental ingredient in everyday items such as detergents, pharmaceuticals, and baking soda.
“Global demand for Soda Ash from Green River, Wyoming, the world’s largest trona deposit, continues to grow,” said Brian Kebart, Solvay EVP Global Supply Chain. "This new Vancouver Terminal is a strategic move for Solvay, ensuring we can reliably meet the growing needs of our customers worldwide. We deeply value the collaboration with the Port of Vancouver and VBT, partners who share our commitment to sustainable and essential solutions."
The upgraded terminal should be ready by late 2026. Enhanced storage capabilities, improved rail infrastructure, and modern loading technology are expected to streamline operations. This will help transfer soda ash to international markets more efficiently.
“This port has endured as an economic engine for the region for 113 years, and is a vital link in the global supply chain. Pursuing a diverse mix of commodities people need in their everyday lives is key to these enduring benefits,” said Julianna Marler, CEO of the Port of Vancouver USA. “Today the port and our project partners put shovels in the ground to add soda ash to that mix, a building-block mineral critical for energy generation, construction, health care, food and more. We are incredibly excited to move full speed ahead on a project that will generate jobs and economic benefits for years to come.”
