Canada Speeds Up Pipeline Approval to Reduce US Dependence

Canada is accelerating regulatory approval for a proposed crude oil export pipeline to its Pacific coast as part of efforts to boost energy exports beyond the United States and strengthen the country's economy. Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that the Pacific Link pipeline would be designated a project of national interest, allowing it to undergo a single federal regulatory review instead of multiple approval processes.

The pipeline is expected to transport one million barrels of crude oil per day to Canada's west coast, opening new export routes to international markets. The Canadian government estimates the project could create about 140,000 jobs, contribute more than C$20 billion ($14 billion) annually to the country's Gross Domestic Product and generate over C$100 billion in government revenue by 2060.

The move is part of Ottawa's broader plan to reduce Canada's heavy dependence on the U.S. market, which currently receives more than 90% of the country's crude oil exports through existing pipeline networks. The project also comes amid ongoing trade tensions with the United States.