Canada has unveiled plans to construct a new oil pipeline linking Alberta to the Pacific coast, marking a move to establish an additional export route for its extensive oil reserves to Asian markets (Canadian government statement, 02/07/2026).
The planned pipeline would be capable of transporting 1 mb/d. Its proposed route would mostly follow the existing Trans Mountain corridor, which is the sole Canadian pipeline providing access to Asian markets. The project could strengthen Canada’s position as a major global energy supplier, as Asia’s leading oil importers look to diversify their sources beyond the Middle East following the Iran conflict (Reuters, 03/07/2026).
Canada and Alberta will hold equal ownership stakes in the project, while “there will be a meaningful equity stake reserved for Indigenous Peoples. Pembina Pipeline Corporation will be a private sector investor and will contribute its expertise to the project’s development, which will be led by Trans Mountain Corporation” according to the federal government’s statement.
The measures announced are in line with the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the federal government and the government of Alberta in November 2025, as well as the Implementation Agreement concluded in May 2026 (KEI, 19/06/2026). Construction of the pipeline could begin as early as September 2027.
Canada’s proven oil reserves (including Alberta’s oil sands proven reserves equal to about 160 bbl) are the fourth largest in the world. The country’s crude oil, NGL, and non-conventional oil production has increased by 4.3%/year since 2010, reaching 314 Mt in 2024 (+89%). It has more than doubled since 2000. This progression follows the development of non-conventional oil. Alberta is responsible for a large part of the country’s crude oil output (Enerdata Global Energy Research).