Canada and Alberta advance plans for two new West Coast oil pipelines to serve Asian markets
Executive summary: Canada and Alberta signed a memorandum of understanding for a West Coast oil pipeline targeting Asian customers. The agreement signals a push to increase crude export capacity, which could affect global oil supply dynamics and investment in energy infrastructure.
Who is involved: Government of Canada, Government of Alberta, Prime Minister Mark Carney, Alberta Premier (name not provided)
Likely next: Feasibility studies and environmental assessments under the Impact Assessment Act, Indigenous consultation processes, Federal and provincial approvals before any construction decision
The governments of Canada and Alberta signed a memorandum of understanding on November 27, 2025, earmarking a proposed West Coast oil pipeline as a potential project of national interest aimed at Asian markets. The MOU outlines intentions to move forward with feasibility and regulatory steps, though no construction timetable or cost estimates have been disclosed. This development could expand Canada’s export capacity and reduce reliance on existing pipeline networks.
Timeline
- — Canada Eyes Two New Oil Pipelines (OilPrice)
- — Oil surges as Strait of Hormuz is back into ‘full conflict conditions’ (MarketWatch)
- — The case for having Big Oil in your 401(k) or IRA (MarketWatch)
Analysis — what this means
Sectors affected
- Western Canadian crude export
- Asian crude import markets
- Pipeline construction and engineering
Regulatory implications
- Subject to federal Impact Assessment Act review
- Requires consultation with Indigenous groups under UNDRIP
- Needs approval under the Canada Oil and Gas Operations Act
Historical parallels
- Trans Mountain Expansion Project approval (2018)
- Keystone XL permit cancellation by US administration (2021)
Sources
Open the full interactive case file on Beyond →
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