Ottawa’s recent memorandum of understanding promises a new oil‑pipeline to the West Coast, but the measure is framed as insufficient to heal Alberta’s long‑standing sense of alienation. Critics argue that the pipeline will merely shift the fiscal burden, leave the province with a “pipe dream,” and fail to address deeper grievances over equalization payments, high taxes, and perceived central‑Canada dominance.
Ottawa’s latest tariff regime is portrayed as protecting Ontario’s steel sector, yet the policy is being felt most acutely in Western Canada. Higher rail costs, subsidies that fall short, and delayed infrastructure projects are cited as consequences, while regional tensions rise as provinces outside Ontario shoulder the financial burden.
Innovation fuels Alberta’s economy when ideas are adopted, scaled, and translated into productivity. On Monday, January 26, Alberta Enterprise Group hosts a timely discussion with Minister Nate Glubish on innovation, AI infrastructure, and policy. This forward-looking conversation explores how Alberta can turn talent and technology into sustained economic growth and globally competitive companies.
Canada’s heavy oil advantage is shifting from U.S. displacement to offshore growth. With Venezuela’s production stuck in long term distress and China eyeing replacement barrels, Canadian blends – Alberta, WCS, Cold Lake, Lloydminster – are uniquely positioned. The new Trans Mountain expansion unlocks tide water access, letting Canada capture the biggest heavy oil realignment of the decade.
Alberta’s heavy oil sector stays resilient despite higher carbon taxes and tighter decarbonisation rules. With Venezuelan oilsand output falling, Alberta’s in situ extraction remains a strong substitute for U.S. Gulf Coast demand, keeping sales steady – for now. The article argues there’s no immediate cause for panic, but warns against pipeline delays and policy lag.
The 2026 economic forecast for Canada is marked by significant headwinds. While a proposed $80 billion deficit program is intended to spark short‑term growth, enduring trade and regulatory challenges must be resolved. Success will depend on swift, coordinated policy action that stabilizes rules, accelerates project timelines and convinces investors to keep capital in Canada.
The MOU between Alberta’s Premier and the federal government marks a decisive step toward expanding a coast‑to‑coast pipeline. While climate debates swirl, the agreement underscores Canada’s reliance on robust energy infrastructure to sustain economic prosperity and meet global demand. Learn how this pact could reshape the nation’s energy landscape.
The new Alberta‑Ottawa MOU unlocks a rare window for major energy and infrastructure projects. Alberta Enterprise Group members are prepared with the skilled workforce, equipment and know‑how to deliver safely and swiftly. With clear rules and decisive action, this partnership can restore investor confidence, create jobs and reignite Alberta’s economic momentum.
For nearly a century Alberta has defended its autonomy – from the 1926 Transfer of Natural Resources under Premier John E. Brownlee to today’s leadership of Premier Danielle Smith. Together with Alberta Enterprise Group and its president Catherine Brownlee, the province’s businesses and citizens keep pushing for fair federal policies that protect Alberta’s economic future.
Join AEG on Monday, January 26, 2026 for a luncheon featuring Minister of Technology and Innovation Nate Glubish, followed by a fireside chat on Alberta’s innovation future.
