EDMONTON – (May 15, 2026) – The Edmonton Chamber of Commerce welcomes today’s landmark implementation agreement between the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta, which sets a clear path toward advancing a new west coast oil pipeline for Asian markets, strengthening Canada’s economic competitiveness through improved market access, and coordinated climate policy. 

“This agreement signals a renewed commitment to getting major nation-building projects built in Canada,” said Doug Griffiths, President and CEO of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. “For Edmonton’s business community, this is about restoring confidence that Canada can deliver large-scale infrastructure, diversify our trade relationships, and compete globally.” 

The Chamber is encouraged by the agreement’s commitment to designate the proposed west coast pipeline as a project of national interest, alongside the “one project, one review” approach. 

“Reducing duplication and providing clear timelines are essential if we want to attract investment and move projects forward,” said Griffiths. “Certainty is what drives capital, and today’s announcement moves us closer to that.” 

The proposed pipeline, expected to transport more than one million barrels of oil per day to Asian markets, represents an opportunity to diversify Canada’s export base beyond the United States.  

“For too long, Canadian energy producers have lacked reliable access to global markets, and we are excited at the prospect of an oil pipeline to Asian markets, ensuring we are no longer dependent on just one customer to buy our most valuable resource,” said Heather Thomson, Vice President, Economy and Engagement. “Expanding access to Asia strengthens our economic resilience and ensures Canadian resources can command full value on the world stage.” 

The Chamber also supports the agreement's efforts to modernize industrial carbon pricing, including a predictable price trajectory, a TIER credit price floor beginning in 2030, and the joint issuance of Carbon Contracts for Difference. These measures address long-standing concerns about market oversupply and give industry the long-term signal needed to invest in emissions reductions. 

“Edmonton is home to world-leading expertise in energy, petrochemicals, and emerging low-carbon technologies,” said Thomson. “With the right policy alignment, our region is well-positioned to support both traditional energy development and the transition to lower-emissions solutions.” 

While the agreement represents important progress, the Chamber emphasizes that timely implementation will be critical, current timelines could still be subject to change, and meaningful Indigenous consultation is essential to any pipeline project.  

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