Canada Accelerates Megaprojects to Reduce Dependence on the United States

Canada accelerates strategic megaprojects

Seeks to reduce US dependence

Provinces push for key pipelines

According to the EFE news agency, the Canadian government has launched an ambitious economic initiative to counter what it sees as a direct threat from the United States.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Monday a historic national infrastructure plan.

The goal is clear: to shield the Canadian economy from the protectionist policies driven by President Donald Trump.

During a key meeting with the leaders of the 10 provinces and three territories, Carney outlined the core pillars of the initiative.

Canada Accelerates Strategic Megaprojects to Reduce US Dependence

Canada accelerates strategic megaprojects – PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

One key component is the elimination of internal trade barriers, a long-awaited measure for Canadian industries.

The plan also includes a new mechanism to identify and fast-track infrastructure projects deemed strategic.

Under the new system, project approvals must be completed within a maximum of two years.

Currently, major infrastructure projects can take more than four years to obtain approval, according to federal data.

Provinces Support the Plan, but With Conditions

US Dependence PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

“We want to attract massive investment and position Canada as an energy superpower,” Carney told regional leaders.

The political message is firm: Canada wants greater autonomy from Washington.

For the prime minister, accelerating infrastructure is not just an economic issue—it’s a matter of sovereignty.

Doug Ford, premier of Ontario and one of the hardest hit by the US trade war, strongly backed the plan.

Provinces Push for Critical Energy Infrastructure

US Dependence PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

“Let’s not forget that Trump has declared an economic war on our businesses,” Ford stated bluntly.

Ontario, the industrial heart of Canada, has suffered from tariffs and trade restrictions that have undermined its competitiveness.

Ford welcomed the rare consensus the plan has sparked among provinces that are often politically divided.

However, that unity faces real challenges—particularly regarding pipeline development.

Alberta Presses to Exploit Its Oil Reserves

Canada Pursues Self-Sufficiency PHOTO: SHUTTERSTOCK

The provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan are demanding the rapid construction of new pipelines to both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts.

Currently, 97% of oil from these provinces is exported to the United States.

Diversifying export destinations has become a geostrategic priority for provincial governments.

Danielle Smith, premier of Alberta, welcomed Prime Minister Carney’s new approach.

Infrastructure to Cut US Dependence

“We haven’t heard this kind of commitment in a long time,” Smith said enthusiastically.

For her, failing to tap into Alberta’s energy potential would be a historic mistake.

Alberta holds an estimated 1.8 trillion barrels of crude, valued at CAD 9 trillion.

That’s roughly USD 6.5 trillion—a crucial figure in any national economic projection.

Environmental Challenges and New Global Links

Smith believes that leveraging that energy capital is vital for Canada’s future.

Beyond oil, the national plan also promotes the mining and logistics sectors.

Highways, railways, bridges, and ports are included in the list of priority projects.

The goal is to better integrate Canadian regions and ease access to international markets.

Canada Redefines Its Global Economic Autonomy

However, not everyone shares the enthusiasm for this development-driven vision.

Provinces like Quebec and British Columbia have criticized the expansion of pipelines.

Their governments, along with numerous Indigenous communities, have raised environmental and territorial concerns.

Nevertheless, the federal government insists that all projects must comply with strict environmental standards.