The federal government is reviewing the merger between ag company giants Viterra and Bunge.

Both companies announced the $8.2-billion (US) deal in June.

Federal Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez says the deal is of significant national interest in Canada’s transportation sector and the broader supply chain, as both companies hold ownership interests in port terminals across the country.

The deal will be reviewed under the mergers and acquisitions provisions of the Canada Transportation Act, starting with a public interest assessment, which can take up to 250 days to complete.

The assessment will include consultations with Canada’s ports and marine industry, as well as other industry stakeholders, government departments and other levels of government.