Canada fast-tracks review of proposed Pacific Link pipeline
A national-interest designation enables one federal review, with Ottawa aiming to complete it by September 2027. The proposal remains subject to review.
Canada has designated the proposed Pacific Link crude oil pipeline a project of national interest, allowing it to proceed through a single federal regulatory review. The government aims to complete the process by 1 September 2027; the designation does not approve construction.
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the move in Fort McMurray alongside Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. Ottawa says the pipeline would carry up to 1 million barrels of oil a day to the west coast and help diversify exports beyond the United States.
Canada sends more than 90 per cent of its crude exports to the US, while the existing Trans Mountain pipeline is reported to be at capacity following its 2024 expansion. The proposal would be built by government-owned Trans Mountain Corp in coordination with Pembina Pipeline Corp.
Indigenous communities would be offered at least a 10 per cent ownership interest. Ottawa’s projected jobs, GDP and government revenue from the project remain estimates, and filling the pipeline would require new oil production.
The announcement comes as Alberta prepares to vote on 19 October on whether to hold a referendum on separation. Smith said she would vote for Alberta to remain in Canada and described the pipeline as an example of co-operative federalism.
